1995 Coup: I Didn’t Know Gowon Wrote Abacha To Release Me From Prison

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has commended the former head of state, whom he described as his boss, Gen. Yakubu Gowon, for writing a letter to Gen. Sani Abacha to set him free from prison over an alleged coup in 1995.

It will be recalled that Gen. Yakubu Gowon, at the interdenominational Unity Christmas Carol and Praise Festival, held at Ten Commandments Altar in Jos, narrated how he saved former President Olusegun Obasanjo from execution by the late head of state, Gen. Sani Abacha.

But, Obasanjo, who is also the guest of honour, while speaking on day two of the historic event, said, “Yesterday, Gen. Yakubu Gowon gave us a revelation, how he wrote a letter to late Gen Sani Abacha for my release from prison.”

Obasanjo pointed out that when he was released from prison, he was informed about friends within and outside Nigeria who contributed through prayers and appealed to the then-military government for his release.

The former president also explained that after his release, he went around the world thanking those who had been pointed out to him, praying, and appealing to the then-military government on his behalf.

“ I did not know that Gen. Yakubu Gowon wrote a personal letter for my release until he said it yesterday. I thank you for that,” he said.

The former president, who is also worried that peace has become a scarce commodity in Plateau State, pointed out that he believed the reason is that there is not enough love.

According to him, there will not be disputes or conflicts where there is love. He argued that there would be harmony, understanding, and, of course, unity.

The elder statesman further said that where there is love, God’s diversity wishes will be unity, and where there is love, God’s diversity wishes will be managed, adding that God is God of diversity, commonality, and unity.

“If God is not God of diversity, he will have made us all the same, our faces will have been the same, and one will have to imagine the kind of problem of identity that will have arisen.”

The former president further said Governor Mutfwang’s concern is ensuring peace, security, and progress in the state, adding that is why he inaugurated the Unity and Praise Festival, stressing that the initiative is Godly and timely to him.

Meanwhile, Governor Caleb Mutfwang, while speaking at the occasion, said the festival aimed at promoting peace and unity as well as safeguarding the state’s divine heritage.