Politician and Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 general election, Peter Obi, has clarified his reasons for joining other political leaders in congratulating former military head of state, General Yakubu Gowon (rtd), on his 90th birthday.
His gesture, which mirrored tributes from President Bola Tinubu and others, sparked backlash, especially among Igbos, who associate Gowon with the Nigerian Civil War.
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The Nigerian Civil War, which spanned from 1967 to 1970, unfolded under Gowon’s leadership, while the breakaway Biafran Republic was led by the late Lieutenant Colonel Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu. Many of Obi’s supporters, particularly from the South-East, criticised his felicitation, given the war’s devastating impact on the region.
Obi’s Explanation
In response to the criticism, Obi took to his X (formerly Twitter) account to explain his stance. He emphasised that forgiveness is crucial in building a new Nigeria and stressed that his action aligns with his belief in reconciliation and unity.
“I share in some of the sentiments expressed by Nigerians, but as a leader, I must demonstrate that ultimate heroism lies in forgiveness and moving forward,” Obi said.
He reflected on the horrors of the 30-month civil war, noting that God’s ways are beyond human understanding, as exemplified by Gowon’s longevity and Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, who witnessed the war’s end and continues to champion national unity at 87 years. Obi also highlighted the heroic burial of Ojukwu on 2 March 2012 during his tenure as Governor of Anambra State, as a step toward reconciliation.
“The burial of Dim Ojukwu remains the boldest indication that Nigeria is disposed to moving forward in the spirit of reconciliation,” he added.
Obi’s Message on Forgiveness
Obi urged Nigerians to choose forgiveness over revenge to heal the wounds of the past. Citing Colossians 3:13 and Ephesians 4:31-32, he stressed the transformative power of forgiveness.
“Bitterness, anger, and hurt are natural responses to cruelty, but they fuel division and violence. Forgiveness, on the other hand, sets the forgiver free,” he noted.
He also expressed that most of his supporters were born after the war and that dragging them into the bitterness of the past would derail the movement for a New Nigeria. “This New Nigeria must eliminate all political vices, including ethnic and regional segregation,” Obi stated.
Obi concluded by reminding Nigerians that forgiveness is a process, not an instinct, but one essential for personal and collective healing. “It is hate that has kept us down despite God’s blessings, and it is time to let it go,” he said.
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