Obi’s Praise for Gowon Sparks Backlash…
2 min read
Peter Obi, has paid tribute to former Nigerian Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, in celebration of his 90th birthday. Obi lauded Gowon for his leadership during a critical period in Nigeria’s history, hailing his dedication to peace, unity, and the preservation of the country’s sovereignty.
In his words, Obi said:
“I am privileged to join other Nigerians of goodwill to celebrate a highly respected leader and former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, on his 90th birthday anniversary.
In a time of hate, you stood for love. At a time of strife, you stood for peace. At a time of division, you stood for unity.
Your life of service to our great nation, Nigeria, stand as one of sacrifice, leadership, and unity.
Your steadfast commitment to preserving the peace and sovereignty of Nigeria during a challenging period in our history will forever be remembered and revered.
Your exemplary leadership and statesmanship remain an inspiration to younger and many generations of Nigerians.
As we celebrate this milestone, I pray that God continues to grant you good health, wisdom, and the grace of true fruitfulness.
May your legacy continue to guide us as we strive to build a more united, prosperous, and just Nigeria.
Happy 90th birthday, Sir. -PO”.
Obi’s tribute has generated mixed reactions, with some praising the message and others viewing it through the lens of Nigeria’s complex civil war history thus…
“As an Igbo person who deeply understands the pain and trauma inflicted on our people during the Biafran War, it is truly disheartening to read this message coming from Peter Obi, someone who should know better.
While I respect the need for civility, let’s not rewrite history. Gowon’s actions during the war led to the deaths and suffering of millions of Igbo men, women, and children. The scars of that period still run deep in the hearts of many of us. Celebrating his “unity” and “peace” without acknowledging the atrocities and starvation policies imposed on our people feels like a betrayal.
Peter Obi, you are someone who has carried the hopes of the Igbo people, and we look to you to speak truth to power, not to gloss over painful truths. Unity should be built on justice and acknowledgment of the past, not by ignoring or romanticising the role of those who contributed to our suffering.
The Biafran War is not just a chapter in history. It’s a wound that still bleeds for many families. Please, let’s not diminish our pain in the name of national politics”.
@nkechi_first
“This is a no sir
A big no
I will be watching from the sidelines”.
Morris_Monye
