Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 election, has responded to criticism following his congratulatory message to former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, on his 90th birthday. The backlash arose from some Nigerians who were displeased by Obi’s gesture, particularly due to Gowon’s role in Nigeria’s Civil War (1967-1970).
In his response titled, “Why I Congratulated Gen. Gowon at 90,” Obi explained that his message was motivated by a desire for national healing, emphasizing the importance of forgiveness and moving forward from the painful events of the past. He stated that while he understands the sentiments of those affected by the war, he believes that reconciliation and forgiveness are necessary for Nigeria’s future.
Obi wrote, “As a leader in the vanguard of providing direction for our country to shift base away from all our shortcomings, including the issues that caused our avoidable cruel civil war, I needed to show to the world that the ultimate heroism is forgiving the enemy and moving forward.”
Referencing his Christian faith, Obi highlighted the value of forgiveness, quoting the Bible to underscore his point. He added, “Forgiveness is more a process than an instinct. It’s hate that has put our society, blessed by God to be the greatest land in the black World, down, but this hate has to stop.”
Obi’s remarks came after a barrage of criticism, including comments from Reno Omokri, a former presidential aide, who argued that Gowon should not be seen as an enemy to be forgiven. Omokri questioned Obi’s stance, asking, “Is the unity of our country safe in the hands of a man who sees a person who fought a war to preserve Nigeria’s unity as an ‘enemy to be forgiven’?”
The exchange has sparked discussions about national unity, the legacy of Nigeria’s civil war, and the role of forgiveness in healing the nation’s divisions.
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