Civil war was not to defeat any part, but to unite Nigeria

Accompanied to the service by his wife, Victoria, Gowon said the war was fought to unite the country as one entity. He stressed that it was to ensure the re-integration of the Eastern Region with the rest of the country.

He said, “We fought an unfortunate civil war to keep the country together. And, in the end, we did it as one. Yes, it is not a question of a defeat of any part of the country, but to ensure that, yes, they are back in the country.

“And it’s Nigeria that really won in the end: Nigeria was the victor and not any part of Nigeria over the other. I thank God for that. We must continue as one Nigeria and make Nigeria great,” Gowon said.

The former Head of State who ruled the country from 1966 to 1975, thanked Nigerians for celebrating the milestone with him. He admitted that his achievements during the restive era were not his doing. But one made possible through the support of all.

“I thank you for the support given to me, the prayers, and for the peace and stability of the country. And for the good people of Nigeria, we did our best. And I can assure you, as l said that the support of the people encouraged me to go ahead,” he said.

The former Head of State also said the G-O-W-O-N acronyms in his name indeed inferred “Go On With One Nigeria.” As coined by the Observer newspaper published during the civil war. He noted that the acronym was one of the reasons that emboldened and reinforced his determination to ensure Nigeria was kept together.

The event was graced by several dignitaries, including former President Olusegun Obasanjo and former President Jonathan. Also, former President Muhammadu Buhari, was represented by a former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Mr. Boss Mustapha. Former Vice President, Osinbajo was also in attendance.

Speaking at the event, the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, who represented President Bola Tinubu expressed appreciation for his life. She thanked Gowon for his dignity and patriotism for the nation, including his infectious love for the country.

The First Lady admitted that she was a little girl of six years old when Gowon became Head of State in 1966.

She noted that the General was destined by God to be an exemplary leader of good in a world of cynicism.

“Your life of simplicity, humility, grace, dignity, and patriotism to our nation gives us hope that Nigeria is all we have,” she said.

in his remark, former President Jonathan described Gowon as a peace ambassador. He said he is someone gifted with leadership at a young age.

Former Vice President, Osinbajo, on his part described Gowon as embodiment of all that is expected of leadership. He said the former Head of State radiates the fear of God, humility, honesty, integrity, and respect for the people.

“And we have also seen that after leaving office in later years, he kept just being a responsible elder statesman. He was going around the country with the gospel of Jesus Christ.”

source: ThisDay

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