Gowon calls for Forgiveness, Reconciliation For National Unity

Former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon has called on Nigerians to forgive and reconcile with one another for peace to reign supreme in the country.

Speaking during the Annual Conference of the Anglican Men’s Christian Fellowship held at Saint Matthew’s Anglican Church Maitama Abuja Abuja, General Gowon said the Nigerian Civil War was not driven by hatred, but by a difficult necessity to preserve national unity.

General Gowon emphasized the importance of forgiveness, reconciliation, and unity across faiths and ethnicities.

“It was never a hatred against any people, I can assure you. Apart from that, there is love and respect between us.”

The former military leader, now 91, recalled personal losses during the war, including the death of his close friend, Major Arthur Unegbe.

Reflecting on life after that era, the former head of state stressed that his decisions were guided by prayers and a desire to act with integrity and compassion.

“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 from all the people”.

He called on all citizens to support the government’s efforts to uphold peace, love, and mutual respect.

“This is my prayer, and I ask your prayers for Nigeria so that we can continue to unite and live together as one people, irrespective of our faith, whether Christian, Muslim, or an unbeliever”.

In his remarks, Primate Church of Nigeria Anglican Communion, Most Reverend Henry Ndukuba emphasized the need for those in positions of Authority to exercise their duties with the fear of God and have the love of citizens at heart.

Most Reverend Henry Ndukuba, who identified corruption, nepotism, and greed as the causes of the hardship in the country, called on President Bola Tinubu to be firm and monitor the activities of all appointees.

The Anglican Primate, however, stressed the need for Christain men to live up to their responsibilities by raising Godly children for the future of the country.

Most Reverend Henry Ndukuba assured that the Church would continue to raise men and women with integrity for the country.

President Abuja Diocesan Christian Men’s Fellowship Mr Isaac Chukwudi expressed concern over effects of the current economic impact on citizens and urged men not to shy away from their duties at home.

Awards were presented on the occasion to some individuals in recognition of their contributions and exemplary service to the Church, the nation, and humanity.

The awaardees include Former Head of State General Yakubu Gowon, a former diplomat, Dr Christopher Kolade, Owelle Gilbert Chikellu, among others.