Kehinde Fajobi
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has expressed gratitude to former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon (Rtd.), following a revelation that Gowon intervened with the late General Sani Abacha to spare his life during his imprisonment.
Obasanjo had been detained by Abacha’s regime on allegations of plotting to overthrow the government.
Speaking at the inaugural Plateau Interdenominational Unity Christmas Carols and Praise Festival at the 10 Commandments Prayer Altar in Doi, Jos South Local Government Area, Gowon disclosed that he had written a letter to Abacha urging clemency for Obasanjo.
Gowon said the letter, delivered through his wife, emphasised that as a leader, Abacha’s role was to do good, not harm.
Gowon expressed his gratitude that Obasanjo was released after Abacha’s death in June 1998, later going on to serve as Nigeria’s president in 1999.
At the same event, Obasanjo acknowledged Gowon’s intervention, saying he had been unaware of it until the revelation.
“I want to acknowledge my boss, General Yakubu Gowon. Yesterday, he made a revelation, and I have to thank you specifically for that.
“When I came out of prison, I had the opportunity to thank friends, inside and outside the country, who contributed to appeal and pray for my release from prison.
“And I went round the world thanking those that have been appealing and praying for my release from prison.
“But I did not know that you wrote a personal letter for my release until you said it yesterday; I thank you for that,” Obasanjo said.
The event was attended by Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang, along with former governors Jonah Jang, Joshua Dariye, and Boni Haruna, among other dignitaries.