Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, has addressed the wave of backlash he received after congratulating former Head of State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon, on his 90th birthday. Obi’s message, which was met with mixed reactions, especially among some Nigerians affected by the civil war, highlighted the importance of forgiveness and moving forward as a nation.
In a detailed post titled “Why I Congratulated Gen. Gowon at 90”, Obi explained that his gesture was motivated by a desire to promote unity and reconciliation in Nigeria. Reflecting on the country’s 30-month civil war (1967-1970), Obi acknowledged the deep pain caused by the conflict but emphasized that “the ultimate heroism is forgiving the enemy and moving forward.”
He argued that General Gowon, who led Nigeria during the war, has been kept alive by divine purpose to witness the progress of a reconciled nation. Obi also mentioned the state funeral given to Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, leader of Biafra, under his tenure as Governor of Anambra State, calling it a symbol of the country’s willingness to move beyond past divisions.
“There are various ways human beings can respond to acts of evil,” Obi stated. “One is the tragedy of revenge, and another offers the hope of forgiveness.” He further urged Nigerians to abandon bitterness and hatred, stressing that such emotions only perpetuate conflict and division. Obi grounded his argument in Christian values, citing scriptures that promote forgiveness and peace.
However, former presidential aide Reno Omokri took issue with Obi’s statements. In his response, Omokri criticized Obi for describing Gowon as an “enemy to be forgiven” and the actions during the civil war as “acts of evil.” Omokri questioned whether someone who views Gowon—who fought to keep Nigeria united—as an enemy could be trusted to lead a unified Nigeria.
Omokri also accused Obi of inconsistency, pointing out that Obi had frequently celebrated notable figures like Professor Wole Soyinka in the past but remained silent on Soyinka’s 90th birthday after the professor criticized him in 2023. Omokri suggested that Obi’s reluctance to congratulate Soyinka reflected his desire to maintain support from those sympathetic to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), who oppose Gowon due to the war’s outcome.
Omokri further argued that Obi’s remarks raised doubts about his commitment to Nigeria’s unity, questioning if he would seek to reverse Gowon’s efforts in keeping the country together if given the opportunity.
The controversy over Obi’s message highlights the enduring sensitivities surrounding Nigeria’s civil war and the ongoing debates about forgiveness, national unity, and leadership.