By Nchetachi Chukwuajah
A former Nigerian Head of State, Yakubu Gowon, has given the reason for writing his autobiography, saying he needed to tell his truth and not to join issues with anyone.
He stated this during the public presentation of his autobiography, “My Life of Duty & Allegiance,” held at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre, Abuja, on Tuesday, May 19.
Gowon, who became Head of State in 1966 following a period of political instability and military intervention, said the autobiography was written partly to preserve history and counter misinformation surrounding his role in Nigeria’s evolution.
He added that the book is not intended to attack individuals or revisit old divisions, but to contribute to national memory and strengthen understanding of Nigeria’s journey.
“I only needed to tell my truth, not join issues with anyone or sit in judgement over what might be considered right or wrong.
“Speaking out also became necessary because my story and that of Nigeria were too intertwined,” he said.
The former Head of State also reaffirmed his unshakable belief in Nigeria’s unity, stressing that his faith in the survival and future of the country remained absolute despite the political, economic, and security challenges bedevilling it.
He added that his conviction in the unity and survival of Nigeria had remained strong decades after leading the country through the civil war, regarded as one of its most turbulent periods.
“I cannot say it loudly enough that my belief in the long-term survival of Nigeria is total because my love for the country is beyond question,” Gowon said.
Ahead of the 2027 general election, the former Head of State warned against divisive politics and urged political actors to avoid desperation and actions capable of threatening national cohesion.
He said, “We all must rise to contain the desperation frequently exhibited by the political class who engage in what they love to call ‘do-or-die’ politicking.
“We must not give room to naysayers who see no good in our nation and would rather label it a ‘failed state.’”
Gowon expressed confidence that Nigeria would overcome its current difficulties, insisting that the country’s diversity should remain a source of strength rather than division.
“On my watch as Head of State, the country did not fall, and I am confident that the nation, despite all its challenges, still will not fall,” he said.
The elder statesman also described public service as a call to responsibility and sacrifice rather than personal glory, noting that leadership must be guided by “conscience and conviction.”
Also speaking at the launch, the publisher of the autobiography and Chief Executive Officer of Havilah Group, Akogun Lanre Adesuyi, said the autobiography documents Gowon’s personal journey, his years in military service, the events leading to the civil war, post-war reconciliation efforts, and his reflections on nation-building.
He said the autobiography was more than a personal memoir, but represented an important contribution to Nigeria’s historical documentation.
Adesuyi said, “Today, pages will be turned, memories will speak, and history will find its authentic voice.
“This is no ordinary book presentation. Rather, we are here to share the author’s story of an era and the enduring power of character. I repeat: character, character, character. This country needs character.”
Adesuyi said Gowon deliberately chose to recount his experiences without bitterness or judgement.
The publisher noted the importance of preserving historical records, warning that failure to document events allows distorted narratives to thrive.
He said, “General Yakubu Gowon has chosen to address history without judgment.
“As he repeatedly told us while working on this book, it is all about telling his truth. And as we all know, truth is always a defence.”
