Former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon (rtd), has expressed his desire to be remembered as a leader who deeply loves Nigeria and its people.
The 90-year-old elder statesman made the remark during an interview with Arise Television, where he reflected on Nigeria’s history, particularly the events that led to the outbreak of the Nigerian Civil War in July 1967.
Gowon, who led Nigeria between 1966 and 1975, revisited the Aburi Accord reached in January 1967 at a summit in Ghana, which many believed could have averted the war.
According to him, the agreement ultimately collapsed due to fundamental disagreements between himself and then-Eastern Region leader, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu.
He stated that Ojukwu’s insistence on a regional autonomy framework was something the federal side could not accommodate, leading to a breakdown in negotiations and the subsequent 30-month conflict.
Reflecting on his legacy, the retired General said his love and prayers for Nigeria remain unwavering.
“I want to be remembered as someone who loves his country, Nigeria, who loves Nigerians, who prays — at least if I cannot fight — I pray for Nigeria to continue to be a country that all of us love. I know it is impossible for any country to be absolutely perfect,”he said.
