Peter Obi Advocates Forgiveness, Unity, Pays Glowing Tributes to General Yakubu Gowon at 90th Birthday

By: Abdulwasiu Akintunde 

The Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has called for forgiveness and unity among Nigerians as the country marks the 90th birthday of former military leader, General Yakubu Gowon. 

OPEN TELEVISION NAIJA (OTN) News gathered that Obi expressed these sentiments while congratulating Gowon, reflecting on the need to overcome past divisions for a better future.  

Obi joined other leaders, including President Bola Tinubu, former President Muhammadu Buhari, and the Christian Association of Nigeria, in honoring Gowon. 

In a tweet, Obi highlighted Gowon’s legacy of leadership and unity, saying, “At a time of hate, you stood for love. At a time of division, you stood for unity.” Obi emphasized that such values remain essential as Nigeria strives to build a more just and united nation. 

However, Obi acknowledged that his congratulatory message received mixed reactions. 

Addressing these concerns, Obi explained that his message was not just a celebration of Gowon’s life but an intentional act of reconciliation. 

Reflecting on Nigeria’s history, Obi stressed the importance of forgiveness to heal the wounds of the past. 

However, he pointed out that both Gowon, who led the war effort, and Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, who brokered peace, are alive today, signaling a divine opportunity for national reflection and reconciliation. 

He also recalled the symbolic burial of Biafran leader, Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, which took place during his tenure as Governor of Anambra, as evidence of the nation’s evolving spirit of unity.  

Obi concluded by urging Nigerians to reject bitterness and hatred, which, he warned, fuel divisions and conflict. Drawing on his Christian faith, he cited passages from Colossians 3:13 and Ephesians 4:31-32, underscoring the importance of forgiveness. 

“Forgiveness is a process, and it sets us free. Together, we must work toward a nation where hate gives way to peace,” Obi said.

In conclusion, Obi appealed to those hurt by his message to embrace the mission of building a new Nigeria where justice and good governance can flourish.