Former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon (retd.), has declared that the Nigerian Civil War, which broke out between 1967 and 1970, was never his choice, describing it as the most difficult period of his life.
Gowon, who led Nigeria during the tumultuous years of the Biafra conflict from July 6, 1967, to January 15, 1970, stated this while receiving the Life Time Integrity and Achievement Award at the 5th Convention of the Christian Men’s Fellowship of the Abuja Anglican Diocese held on Saturday in the Federal Capital Territory.
Speaking after receiving the award, the elder statesman explained that his decision to lead the nation through the civil war was not driven by hatred or animosity towards any group, but was borne out of the compelling need to preserve the unity of the country.
His words: “I always remember the civil war. It was the most difficult period of my life. It was not my choice, but I had to be there, and had to do what I did in order to keep this country together. It was never a hatred against any people, I can assure you.”
Gowon, who has remained a prominent voice for peace and reconciliation in Nigeria since leaving office, used the occasion to emphasise the need for forgiveness, unity and harmony across ethnic and religious divides.
He also shared insight into how his life and leadership have consistently been guided by prayers and a commitment to integrity and compassion.
“As far as this heart is concerned, everything that I do, it is through prayers. I ask God to help me to do the right thing the way He thinks it should be done, with love and respect for all the people,” he said.
He concluded by echoing his famous post-war declaration: “That is why at the end, what do we have to say? As they say: no victor, no vanquished.”
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