Former Nigerian Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon (rtd), has described the Nigerian Civil War as a “difficult necessity” undertaken to preserve the country’s unity and territorial integrity, not out of hatred or vengeance.
The war which started in 1967 and ended 1970 followed the attempted secession of the Eastern Region of Nigeria, led by Colonel Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, now late, who declared the Republic of Biafra.
The conflict claimed over a million lives, primarily through famine and disease, a strategy for victory adopted by the military junta led by Gowon.
The strategy which has continued to be condemned left deep scars on the national psyche and Gowon has had to defend his actions at every forum.
Gowon, who became Nigeria’s Head of State in 1966 at the age of 31, later initiated the post-war policy of “No victor, no vanquished,” aimed at reconciliation and reintegration after suppressing the secession in such a brutal style.
Defending his action over the weekend while addressing participants at the Annual Conference of the Anglican Men’s Christian Fellowship in Abuja, Gowon called on Nigerians to embrace forgiveness, reconciliation, and mutual respect as pillars for national healing and unity.
The event brought together a diverse gathering of prominent religious and political leaders, including the Primate of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Most Reverend Henry Ndukuba, and representatives of former President Goodluck Jonathan.
Reflecting on the 1967–1970 Nigerian Civil War, Gowon, who led the country through the conflict, acknowledged the trauma of the period and the weight of responsibility he bore.
“I always remember the Civil War. It was the most difficult period of my life,” he said.
“It was not my choice, but I had to be there and do what I did to keep this country together. It was never about hatred. There is love and respect between us.”
The 91-year-old elder statesman explained that his decision to resist the secessionist bid of Biafra was guided by a vision of national unity and an abiding commitment to the idea of Nigeria as one indivisible entity.
“We stopped Biafra’s independence not to suppress the people, but to protect the soul of a united Nigeria. It was a difficult necessity, not an act of malice,” Gowon said.
“My choices were guided by prayer, integrity, and compassion for all Nigerians.”
Gowon also recalled the personal cost of the war, including the tragic loss of close friends and colleagues. Among them was Major Arthur Unegbe, whose death he described as deeply painful.
“Many of us lost dear friends, brothers, and compatriots. I lost my very close friend, Major Arthur Unegbe, and countless others whose sacrifice must not be in vain,” he noted.
Gowon urged Nigerians, particularly the younger generation, to reject divisive ideologies and instead support efforts aimed at fostering peace and national cohesion.
“This is my prayer, and I ask your prayers for Nigeria so that we can continue to unite and live together as one people — whether Christian, Muslim, or unbeliever,” he said.
In his address, the Primate of the Church of Nigeria, Most Rev. Henry Ndukuba, called on Nigeria’s political leaders to govern with the fear of God and genuine love for the people. He warned that corruption, nepotism, and greed remain among the chief threats to Nigeria’s development and stability.
“We must confront the ills of corruption, nepotism, and greed with courage and truth,” Ndukuba said. “Our leaders must act with integrity and a heart for service.”
He also offered a word of counsel to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, urging him to keep a watchful eye on his appointees and ensure they serve the nation faithfully.
“We urge President Tinubu to closely monitor those he has entrusted with leadership. The people are watching, and history will remember,” he added.
Ndukuba reaffirmed the Church’s commitment to nurturing ethical leadership:
“The Church will continue to raise men and women of integrity for the nation.”
Also speaking at the event, Isaac Chukwudi, President of the Abuja Diocesan Christian Men’s Fellowship, acknowledged the economic and social hardships currently facing many Nigerians.
He encouraged men to remain steadfast and committed to their roles as leaders in their homes and communities.
“In these difficult times, we urge Christian men not to relent. Your role in the family and society is more critical now than ever,” Chukwudi said.
Former President Goodluck Jonathan, represented by John-Kennedy Opara, commended the honorees for their dedication to national service, morality, and faith.
“These men have touched lives, and God has used them in many ways to impact the nation,” Opara remarked. “Their legacies will inspire generations to come.”
The conference culminated in the presentation of Lifetime Integrity and Achievement Awards to notable Nigerians, including General Yakubu Gowon, former High Commissioner to the UK Dr. Christopher Kolade, and Owelle Gilbert Chikellu, for their unwavering service to the Church, nation, and humanity.
