Former Nigerian military Head of State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon (rtd), has refuted claims from certain quarters that he declared a civil war on the Igbos because of hatred for the people of the South-East region.
Gowon who disclosed this in Abuja after being honoured with a Lifetime Integrity and Achievement Award at the 5th Convention of the Christian Men’s Fellowship, Abuja Anglican Diocese, described the Nigerian/Biafra civil war from July 6, 1967 to January 15, 1970, as the most difficult period of his life.
While speaking on the theme “Men of Honour: Living with Integrity in a Culture of Deceit,” the former Nigerian leader explained that his decisions during the civil war were never driven by hatred but by a difficult necessity to preserve national unity.
“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,” the retired Army General stated.
The octogenarian also urged Nigerians to always stand for the truth and stressed the need for forgiveness, reconciliation, and unity across faiths and ethnicities.
Reflecting on his life after leaving office, the former stressed that his decisions had often been guided by prayers and a desire to act with integrity and compassion.
“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.
“That is why, at the end, what do we have to say? As they say, No victor, no vanquished,” he added.
