Nigeria’s former military ruler, Yakubu Gowon, has stirred controversy with his recent remarks, drawing criticism from various quarters of Nigerian society. Gowon’s comments, made during a meeting with President Bola Tinubu, have ignited public outrage, particularly in light of the country’s economic challenges and security challenges.
During his interaction with President Tinubu, Gowon reportedly advised Tinubu not to be troubled by criticisms from Nigerians, citing his own experience of facing backlash during his leadership. He recalled how he was criticized for being perceived as “too slow” in handling the Nigerian Civil War, which aimed to quash the secessionist movement in Biafra.
Gowon, who led Nigeria from 1966 to 1975, defended his counsel to Tinubu, stating to journalists during a visit to the Presidential Villa, “I was telling him (Mr. Tinubu) that there’s no Nigerian leader that can get there, that will not get all of these; all that is being said about him. But with Nigerians, don’t you worry you will get criticised.”
He elaborated on his own experiences during the Civil War, remarking, “If I can remember, when I was fighting the war I was told I was too slow and that probably Nigeria cannot make it and that we should now seek for discussion. Well, did we do it or not? They probably do not know the problem underground so that is where we are.”
However, Gowon’s statements have been met with widespread frustration and discontent among Nigerians. Many question why the former leader did not address the current economic hardships facing the country but instead focused on encouraging Tinubu towards continuity.
Explaining the purpose of his visit to Tinubu, Gowon mentioned discussing various matters, including the challenges within the ECOWAS region. He urged Nigerians to exercise patience and allow the president time to address the nation’s issues, emphasizing that it is premature to expect perfect results.
This is not the first time Gowon’s remarks have sparked controversy. Last year, he referred to the Nigerian Civil War, which resulted in the deaths of millions, as “a little fracas.” The war, which broke out in 1967 after the South-East’s secession, lasted over 30 months, with lingering agitation for secession in the region.
The conflict, characterized by atrocities on both sides, saw numerous civilians killed, many through starvation and massacres by Nigerian soldiers. Despite its significant toll, the war’s documentation remains incomplete, with accounts highlighting widespread atrocities against Igbo civilians.
Gowon’s recent comments have reignited discussions about accountability, leadership, and the need for addressing Nigeria’s historical wounds while navigating its current challenges.