Former Nigerian Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, has revealed that the Biafra Civil War (1967-1970) was not a conflict he chose, describing it as the most challenging period of his life.
Speaking at the 5th Convention of the Christian Men’s Fellowship, Abuja Anglican Diocese, where he received a Lifetime Integrity and Achievement Award, Gowon emphasized that his decision to prosecute the war was driven by the need to preserve Nigeria’s unity, not hatred.
Gowon, who led Nigeria during the war from July 6, 1967, to January 15, 1970, clarified that his actions were guided by a commitment to national cohesion. “It was never a hatred against any people, I can assure you,” he said, reflecting on the difficult decisions made during the conflict. He reiterated his philosophy of “no victor, no vanquished,” a stance he adopted at the war’s end to foster reconciliation.
The former leader called for forgiveness, unity, and reconciliation across Nigeria’s diverse ethnic and religious groups.
He attributed his leadership decisions to prayer and a desire to act with integrity and compassion, stating, “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.”
