Adebayo Adeolu, author of “Sani Abacha: Nigeria’s Most Powerful Defence Minister and Head of State,” has revealed a lesser-known detail about the overthrow of former Nigerian Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, highlighting the latter’s plea for a peaceful transition.
Speaking on the Edmund Obilo Show from 6:28, Adeolu disclosed that when Gowon was about to be ousted from power in July 1975, he made a remarkable appeal to his associates and security aides to ensure that no one was harmed during the process.
“When Gowon was going to be overthrown, he said ‘make sure nobody’s killed, we have seen enough of it,’” Adeolu quoted the former leader as saying.
According to Adeolu, Gowon’s statement reflected his deep weariness with the cycle of bloodshed that had characterized Nigeria’s military coups and political upheavals since independence. He noted that Gowon, who had led Nigeria through the brutal civil war from 1967 to 1970, understood the devastating consequences of violence and sought to prevent further loss of life, even at his own expense.
The author explained that Gowon’s calm and forgiving disposition stood in contrast to the tense atmosphere of the period, when leadership changes often came with casualties. “It was a moment that showed Gowon’s humanity and his desire for peace above personal power,” Adeolu added.
Gowon, who was overthrown while attending an Organisation of African Unity (OAU) summit in Kampala, Uganda, reportedly accepted his removal without resistance, later dedicating his life to peace and reconciliation efforts. View, More,
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