Gowon’s Comments Reignite Wounds: Ohanaeze Ndigbo Challenges Former Head of State

The apex Igbo socio-cultural group, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has called upon the former head of state, Gen. Yakubu Gowon (Rtd), to apologize for recent remarks deemed “inflammatory” regarding the Nigerian Civil War experience, asserting that his comments have reignited deep wounds among the Igbo people.

In a strongly-worded statement released on Sunday, Ohanaeze Secretary-General Okechukwu Isiguzoro expressed concern over Gowon’s comments made during a February 21 visit to President Bola Tinubu, labeling them a “deliberate targeting of the collective Igbo psyche” and highlighting a “lack of empathy” for the suffering endured during the 1967-1970 war.

“We challenge Gowon to reflect on his actions and recognize the need for reconciliation and repentance,” Isiguzoro emphasized.

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“His steadfast refusal to acknowledge the pain and suffering caused by the war displays a failure to grasp the gravity of his role in that dark period of our history.”

The group emphasized Gowon’s unique opportunity for redemption and reconciliation, given his survival for over five decades despite the estimated loss of 3 million Igbo lives during the war.

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“As a professed Christian, we implore Gowon to heed the call of conscience and take necessary steps to seek forgiveness from the Igbo people by acknowledging his mistakes, revealing the truth behind the Aburi Accord, and issuing a sincere apology,” Isiguzoro urged.

He noted that Gowon’s “repeated insensitive comments” undermined Igbo reconciliation efforts despite their demonstrated forgiveness and commitment to national development.

Isiguzoro called upon the former head of state to seize the pivotal moment to discard past relics, embrace humility, and offer a long-overdue apology, stating that it would pave the way for genuine reconciliation, lasting peace, and harmony.

The Nigerian Civil War, also known as the Biafran War, occurred between July 6, 1967, and January 15, 1970. It was a conflict fought between Nigeria and the Republic of Biafra, a secessionist state that declared independence from Nigeria in 1967.

Nigeria was led by Gowon, while Biafra was led by Lieutenant Colonel Chukwuemeka “Emeka” Odumegwu Ojukwu.