‘I did not declare a civil war because of hatred of Igbos’ —Gowon

The former Nigerian military head, General Jacobu Gowon (RTD), has denied the claim that he declared a war on IGBOS because of hatred of the people in the southeast.

Gowon, who revealed this on Saturday in Abuja after being respected with a lifelong integrity and achievement award at the 5th Convention of Christian Male alliance, Abuja Anglican’s diocese, described the period of Brother Nigeria/Biafra from July 6, 1967 to 15 January 1970, as the most difficult period in his life.

When speaking with the theme “Honorary Men: Living with integrity in the culture of fraud,” the former Nigerian leader explained that his decision during the Civil War was never encouraged by hatred but by the need that was difficult to maintain national unity.

“I always remember the civil war. It was the most difficult period in my life.

“That’s not my choice, but I have to be there and have to do what I do to keep this country together.

“That never hatred of any person, I can convince you,” he said.

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Octogenarian also urged Nigerians to always defend the truth and emphasize the need for forgiveness, reconciliation, and interfaith and ethnic unity.

Reflecting on his life after leaving the office, the former head of state emphasized that his decision was often guided by prayer and the desire to act with integrity and compassion.

“As far as this heart is involved, everything I do, is through prayer.

“I ask God to help me do the right thing as He thinks must be done, with love and respect for everyone.

“That is why, in the end, what should we say? As they said, there is no Victor, not defeated,” he added.