Obasanjo Breaks Silence: Responds to Gowon’s Claim of Plea to Abacha

Obasanjo Sets the Record Straight After Gowon’s Abacha Plea Comment

After former military head of state Yakubu Gowon recently revealed that he had pleaded with General Sani Abacha to spare the life of Olusegun Obasanjo, Obasanjo has responded, addressing Gowon’s remarks.

In an interview, Obasanjo shared that he held no ill will towards Abacha despite the tense period when Abacha’s regime imprisoned him.

Obasanjo recalled that during his time in prison, Abacha had ordered his execution, alongside other key figures like Shehu Yar’Adua and MKO Abiola, but he survived through divine intervention and his own resilience.

Obasanjo also elaborated on his efforts to write letters of condolence after Abacha’s death, emphasizing that he felt no bitterness.

His comments were a reminder of the complicated relationships and political dynamics of the time, particularly the period following the civil war and the succession of military regimes.

He said he knows that many people made different efforts for his release and after that, he went round to thank them within and outside the country. 

“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, inside and outside the country who contributed to appeal and pray for my release from prison. 

“And I went round the world thanking those that have been appealing and praying for my release from prison. 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.