Former Head of State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon, has recounted his efforts to save former President Olusegun Obasanjo from execution after being convicted of an alleged coup plot under the late Gen. Sani Abacha’s regime in 1995.
Gowon shared the story at the first Interdenominational Unity Christmas Carol and Praise Festival, organised by the Plateau State Government.
Obasanjo was accused of plotting to overthrow Abacha’s government, a charge he denied. Despite his protests of innocence, he was sentenced to death and spent three years in prison before being released in 1998, following 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 hosting the event, describing it as a significant step toward fostering unity and peace in the state, which has faced security challenges.
He praised Governor Caleb Mutfwang for his leadership and initiatives aimed at promoting peaceful coexistence, highlighting the importance of the Christmas carol in bringing people together.
