Former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon (retd.), has described the Biafra civil war as the hardest period of his life. He said the war was never his choice, but he had to fight to keep Nigeria united.
Gowon made this statement on Saturday in Abuja during the fifth convention of the Christian Men’s Fellowship, Abuja Anglican Diocese. The group gave him a Lifetime Integrity and Achievement Award.
Gowon said, “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.”
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The civil war between Nigeria and Biafra lasted from July 6, 1967, to January 15, 1970. During that time, Gowon led the country as military Head of State.
He said he was guided by prayer and a desire to act with love, integrity, and respect for all people.
“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.
Gowon also called for forgiveness, peace, and unity among Nigerians, regardless of religion or ethnic group.
“That is why at the end, what do we have to say? As they say: no victor, no vanquished,” he added.