Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has expressed heartfelt gratitude to General Yakubu Gowon, Nigeria’s former Head of State, for writing a letter to the late military ruler General Sani Abacha advocating for Obasanjo’s release from prison.
Speaking at a recent event, Obasanjo admitted that he was unaware of Gowon’s intervention until recently. “I never knew you wrote a letter to Abacha for my release until much later,” he said, acknowledging the significance of Gowon’s effort during one of the most trying periods of his life.
Obasanjo was imprisoned in 1995 by the Abacha-led regime on charges of treason. His eventual release in 1998, following Abacha’s death, paved the way for his return to politics, culminating in his election as Nigeria’s president in 1999.
READ ALSO: Gowon Warns Against Another Civil War Amid Nigeria’s Growing Insecurity
Gowon, known for his peace advocacy and role in Nigeria’s post-civil war reconciliation, has often been commended for his statesmanship and support for national unity.
This revelation highlights the behind-the-scenes efforts by prominent figures to secure Obasanjo’s freedom, further cementing Gowon’s legacy as a mediator and patriot.
