Former Head of State Gen. Yakubu Gowon has revealed how he intervened to save former President Olusegun Obasanjo from execution following a coup allegation during Gen. Sani Abacha’s regime in 1995.
Speaking at the inaugural interdenominational Unity Christmas Carol and Praise Festival organised by the Plateau State Government, Gowon recounted his efforts to appeal to Abacha’s conscience.
Obasanjo was arrested in 1995 on accusations of plotting a coup against the Abacha government, a charge he denied. Despite his pleas of innocence, he was convicted and sentenced to death. However, he remained in prison until his release in 1998 after Abacha’s death.
“I wrote a letter to Abacha, I pleaded with him that God made him a leader to do good and not evil,” Gowon said.
“I sent my wife with the letter in the middle of the night to Abacha in Abuja. I pleaded with him that such a thing should not happen.
“I’m glad that soon after that, things changed, and not only that Obasanjo left prison, he became our president in 1999. This is something that only prayers and sincerity can do. I’m happy that today myself and Obasanjo are here to celebrate the unity of Plateau.”
Gowon also commended the Plateau State Government for organising the carol, describing it as a timely initiative to promote unity and peaceful coexistence, particularly in a state that has faced significant security challenges.
He praised Governor Caleb Mutfwang for his leadership and efforts to foster harmony among the people, emphasising the importance of events like the carol in bringing citizens together.