Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has expressed gratitude to former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon (rtd.), for intervening with the late General Sani Abacha to spare his life during his imprisonment.
Obasanjo, who was detained under Abacha’s regime for allegedly plotting a coup, disclosed this while responding to a revelation made by Gowon during the inaugural Plateau Interdenominational Unity Christmas Carols and Praise Festival.
The event was held at the 10 Commandments Prayer Altar in Du, Jos South Local Government Area.
During the event, Gowon shared that he wrote a personal letter to Abacha, appealing for clemency on Obasanjo’s behalf. The letter, delivered through Gowon’s wife, urged Abacha to prioritise doing good as a leader.
Gowon expressed joy that Obasanjo not only survived the ordeal but also went on to become Nigeria’s president in 1999 following his release after Abacha’s death in 1998.
Responding the following day at the same event, Obasanjo acknowledged Gowon’s efforts, admitting he was unaware of the intervention until it was revealed.
“I want to acknowledge my boss, General Yakubu Gowon. Yesterday, he made a revelation, and I have to thank you specifically for that. When I came out of prison, I had the opportunity to thank friends, inside and outside the country, who contributed to appeal and pray for my release from prison.
“And I went round the world thanking those that have been appealing and praying for my release from prison. But I did not know that you wrote a personal letter for my release until you said it yesterday; I thank you for that,” Obasanjo said.
The event was graced by several dignitaries, including Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang and former governors Jonah Jang, Joshua Dariye, and Boni Haruna.
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