Civil War Was Never My Intention — Gowon Speaks on Biafra Conflict

Former Nigerian Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon (rtd), has maintained that the Nigerian Civil War, commonly referred to as the Biafra War, was never a conflict he personally desired.

Gowon, who led the country from July 1967 to January 1970 during the war, made this known in Abuja on Saturday at the 5th Convention of the Christian Men’s Fellowship, Anglican Diocese of Abuja. He was honoured with a Life Time Integrity and Achievement Award during the event.

The retired general described the war years as the most trying phase of his life and emphasized that his role in the war was driven solely by the imperative to protect the unity of the country.

“I always remember the civil war. It was the most difficult period of my life,” Gowon said. 

“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 stressed that his actions during that turbulent period were not motivated by animosity. 

“It was never a hatred against any people, I can assure you,” he added.

Gowon called on Nigerians to pursue reconciliation and unity across ethnic and religious lines. 

He further noted that his leadership style has always been guided by divine direction and a sincere desire to serve with integrity.

“As far as this heart is concerned, everything that I do, it is through prayers,” he said. 

“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 concluded by echoing the post-war slogan: “That is why at the end, what do we have to say? As they say: no victor, no vanquished.”