Obasanjo thanks Gowon for clemency appeal during Abacha regime

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has publicly acknowledged and expressed gratitude to former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon (Rtd.), for intervening during the regime of the late General Sani Abacha to save his life.

Obasanjo, who was imprisoned and sentenced to death under Abacha’s administration for alleged involvement in a coup plot, said he only recently became aware of Gowon’s efforts.

General Gowon made the revelation during the inaugural Plateau Interdenominational Unity Christmas Carols and Praise Festival held at the 10 Commandments Prayer Altar in Du, Jos South Local Government Area, over the weekend.

He disclosed that he had written a personal letter to Abacha, urging clemency for Obasanjo. Gowon stated that he sent the letter through his wife, reminding Abacha of the moral responsibilities of leadership.

“I told him that as a leader, he should focus on doing good, not harm,” Gowon said, adding that he was relieved when Obasanjo was eventually freed following Abacha’s death in June 1998. Gowon expressed joy that Obasanjo not only regained his freedom but also went on to become Nigeria’s president in 1999.

Reacting to the revelation the following day, at the same event, Obasanjo thanked Gowon, admitting he had been unaware of the intervention.

“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, both within and outside the country, who contributed to the appeals and prayers for my release. 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 attended by Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang, former governors Jonah Jang, Joshua Dariye, and Boni Haruna, alongside other dignitaries.