Former Nigerian Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, has disclosed how he intervened to prevent the execution of former President Olusegun Obasanjo during General Sani Abacha’s regime. Speaking at the inaugural Interdenominational Unity Christmas Carol and Praise Festival in Plateau State, Gowon recounted the dramatic efforts he made to save Obasanjo’s life following accusations of a coup plot in 1995.

Obasanjo had been arrested and sentenced to death by Abacha’s military government despite maintaining his innocence. Gowon revealed that he wrote a heartfelt letter to Abacha, urging him to act with compassion and use his leadership for good. “I pleaded with him, reminding him that God made him a leader to bring good, not harm,” Gowon stated.

He further explained that his wife personally delivered the letter to Abacha in Abuja during the middle of the night. “Soon after that, things changed,” Gowon added, expressing relief that Obasanjo’s life was spared and that he later rose to lead Nigeria as president in 1999 following his release from prison in 1998 after Abacha’s death.

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A Celebration of Unity and Resilience
The event, organized by the Plateau State Government, brought together various dignitaries, with Gowon serving as the Special Guest of Honour and Obasanjo as the Guest of Honour. The two leaders symbolized unity and reconciliation as they joined in celebrating peace amidst Plateau State’s history of security challenges.

Gowon praised Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang for initiatives fostering peaceful coexistence and emphasized the importance of prayer and sincerity in overcoming challenges. He described the Christmas carol as a perfect platform for the people to reconnect and build a stronger community.

The unity of Plateau State, the legacies of past leaders, and the enduring significance of dialogue and prayer were key themes celebrated during the festival.