Peter Obi Calls for Forgiveness as Former Head of State Yakubu Gowon Celebrates 90th Birthday

During Genaral Yakubu Gowon’s 90th birthday celebration, Peter Obi urges Nigerians to embrace forgiveness, emphasizing unity and reconciliation in the nation’s history.

Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate for 2023, urged Nigerians to foster forgiveness and unity as they celebrated former military Head of State General Yakubu Gowon’s 90th birthday.

Gowon celebrated his 90th birthday on October 19, 2024. The occasion was marked by widespread recognition from notable individuals such as President Bola Tinubu, former President Muhammadu Buhari, and the Christian Association of Nigeria.

On Saturday, in a series of tweets, Obi, who once served as the governor of Anambra State, extended his congratulations to Gowon and celebrated his enduring legacy of service, leadership, and unity. His message stated: “I am honored to join fellow Nigerians with goodwill in celebrating the esteemed leader and former Head of State General Yakubu Gowon’s 90th birthday. Amidst hate you championed love; during strife you advocated for peace; at times of division you pursued unity.”

Obi mentioned that Gowon’s contributions to Nigeria exemplify a life dedicated to “sacrifice, leadership, and unity,” encouraging Nigerians to be inspired by his example.

On Sunday, Obi responded to concerns about the varied reactions his congratulatory message received. Although some considered it inappropriate or unnecessary, he clarified that his intent was to encourage forgiveness, which he sees as essential for healing old wounds.

In a tweet explaining his motivation, Obi stated: “My congratulations to Nigeria’s former military Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, on his 90th birthday have elicited mixed reactions. I believe that as a leader dedicated to guiding our nation away from past challenges like the painful civil war, it is essential to show that true heroism involves forgiveness and progress.”

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Obi contemplated the effects of Nigeria’s civil war (1967–1970) and highlighted the importance of Gowon and former President Olusegun Obasanjo, who were pivotal figures during that period, reaching their 90s and 80s.

“There is a fresh sense of reconciliation demonstrated by Nigeria’s decision to honor Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, the leader of Biafra, with a national burial in 2012,” Obi remarked, noting that this event occurred during his time as governor of Anambra State.

Obi highlighted the importance of forgiveness over holding grudges by citing passages from the Bible, specifically Colossians 3:13 and Ephesians 4:31-32, to reinforce his point.

“Forgiveness is a journey that frees the one who grants it,” Obi observed, emphasizing that resentment and bitterness only widen divides. “Hatred has hindered our society’s progress, but it’s time to release it.”

Obi recognized that some individuals, particularly those who were directly impacted by the war, might not concur with his choice to congratulate Gowon. Nonetheless, he encouraged them to unite with him in creating a nation devoid of hatred and resentment.

“Our society, which is blessed by God to be the greatest among black communities, cannot progress if we are anchored in the past. I was under 10 years old when the war started, and many of my supporters were born long after it ended. We must not pull them into the darker chapters of our history by holding onto old grievances,” Obi emphasized.

He wrapped up his remarks by encouraging those upset by his message to adopt a spirit of reconciliation and back the vision for a new Nigeria. “For Nigeria’s survival, we need good governance grounded in genuine peace and justice,” Obi stated. “Thank you, and God bless.”