The former Head of State General Yakubu Gowon disclosed how he intervened to prevent the execution of ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo, who was convicted of plotting a coup against the late General Sani Abacha’s regime in 1995.
Speaking at the maiden Interdenominational Unity Christmas Carol and Praise Festival organized by the Plateau State Government, Gowon recounted the desperate steps he took to save Obasanjo’s life during that turbulent period.
In 1995, Obasanjo was arrested and accused of conspiring to overthrow General Abacha’s government. Despite maintaining his innocence, he was sentenced to death. However, his execution never materialized, and he spent three harrowing years in prison before his eventual release in 1998, following Abacha’s sudden death.
At the event, where Gowon served as the Special Guest of Honour and Obasanjo the Guest of Honour, the former Head of State shared the emotional story of how he pleaded with Abacha to reconsider the death sentence.
“I wrote a heartfelt letter to General Abacha, reminding him that God made him a leader to do good and not evil. I sent my wife the letter in the middle of the night to Abuja, begging him to spare Obasanjo’s life,” Gowon revealed.
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He credited divine intervention and prayers for the eventual turn of events. “I’m glad that soon after that, things changed. Not only did Obasanjo leave prison, but he also became our president in 1999. This is something only God’s mercy and sincerity can achieve,” he said.
Reflecting on their journey, Gowon expressed joy that he and Obasanjo could stand together to celebrate Plateau State’s unity. “I’m happy that today, myself and Obasanjo are here to celebrate the unity of Plateau. This underscores the power of prayers and togetherness,” he added.
He commended the Plateau State Government for organizing the event, highlighting its potential to foster unity among citizens.
