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Former Nigerian Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon (rtd), has said that the killing of Biafrans during the Nigerian Civil War was not his choice.
Speaking emotionally about his role in the conflict, which took place between 1967 and 1970, Gowon said it was “the most difficult period” of his 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,” he said. “It was never a hatred against any people, I can assure you.”
Gowon explained that his decisions, including during the war, were guided by prayer and a deep desire to do what was right.
“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,” he said.
Reflecting on the war’s outcome, the former leader pointed to the message of reconciliation that followed.
“That is why at the end, what do we have to say? As they say: no victor, no vanquished,” he concluded.
The Civil War remains a painful memory for many Nigerians, but Gowon’s statement may open a fresh conversation about national healing and unity.
