Peter Obi, the Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 elections, has called on Nigerians, especially his supporters, to reject hate and bitterness, emphasizing that these emotions have no place in the nation’s future. This appeal comes in light of backlash he received after extending birthday wishes to former Head of State General Yakubu Gowon (Retd.), who recently turned 90.
Obi faced significant criticism on social media from individuals who felt that, given Gowon’s controversial role during Nigeria’s civil war—which resulted in the deaths of over one million Nigerians, primarily from the Igbo ethnic group—he should not have celebrated the former military ruler.
In a lengthy post on his verified X handle titled “Why I Congratulated Gen. Gowon at 90,” Obi addressed the mixed reactions to his felicitations. He acknowledged the sentiments expressed by many Nigerians and stated, “As a leader in the vanguard of providing direction for our country to shift base away from all our shortcomings… I needed to show to the World that the ultimate heroism is forgiving the enemy and moving forward.”
Reflecting on Nigeria’s turbulent history, he described the civil war from 1967 to 1970 as “the darkest part of our 64-year journey as a nation.” Obi remarked on the significance of General Gowon reaching the milestone of 90 years and highlighted the presence of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, who is 87, at events aimed at fostering reconciliation in Nigeria.
He also pointed to the national burial given to Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, the Biafra leader, as a symbol of Nigeria’s capacity for reconciliation. Obi noted, “The status of the burial given to Dim Ojukwu remains the boldest indication to the World that Nigeria as a country is disposed to moving forward in the spirit of reconciliation.”
Obi concluded by emphasizing the importance of choosing forgiveness over revenge, suggesting that this approach can pave the way for healing and unity in the country.