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Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has reacted to a recent disclosure by former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon (retd), about his role in saving Obasanjo’s life during his imprisonment under the late Gen. Sani Abacha’s regime.
Obasanjo was detained by Abacha’s government on allegations of participating in a coup plot.
AFRIPOST had reported that 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, Gowon shared that he had intervened on Obasanjo’s behalf by writing a letter to Abacha.
According to Gowon, the letter, delivered through his wife, urged Abacha to act with compassion, reminding him that a leader’s duty is to promote good rather than harm.
Gowon expressed gratitude that Obasanjo was eventually released following Abacha’s death in June 1998 and later became Nigeria’s president in 1999.
Responding the next day at the same event, Obasanjo thanked Gowon, admitting that he was unaware of the intervention until it was revealed.
“I want to acknowledge my boss, General Yakubu Gowon,” Obasanjo said. “Yesterday, he made a revelation, and I have to thank you specifically for that.
“When I came out of prison, I thanked those who worked for my release, but I didn’t know about your personal letter until you mentioned it yesterday. I deeply appreciate it.”
The event also saw the attendance of Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang, former governors Jonah Jang, Joshua Dariye, and Boni Haruna, along with other notable dignitaries.