Former Head of State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon (retd.), has warned Nigeria’s political class to urgently tame the desperate “do-or-die” mentality that characterises politicking in the country.
Gowon made the call on Tuesday during the public presentation of his autobiography, My Life of Duty and Allegiance, at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre in Abuja.
The 91-year-old statesman expressed concern over the persistent failure to conduct free, fair, and transparent elections, even at the intra-party level, saying such practices continue to plague the nation.
“We all must rise to contain the desperation frequently accepted by the political class who engage in what they love to call do-or-die politicking and their inability to conduct free, fair and transparent elections, even in matters as minor as intraparty elections,” Gowon said.
He, however, expressed strong confidence in Nigeria’s future, declaring that the country would not collapse despite its numerous challenges.
“Each time I reflect on my service to my country, I become further persuaded that Nigeria can get better and achieve its potential as the giant of Africa. 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 added.
Gowon also criticised what he described as Nigerians’ habit of “presenting difficult solutions to simple problems,” which often generate unnecessary tensions in the country.
The event, which attracted top political and military figures including Vice President Kashim Shettima (who represented President Bola Tinubu), former President Goodluck Jonathan, and former Defence Minister Gen. Theophilus Danjuma (retd.), was used to celebrate Gowon’s legacy, particularly his famous “no victor, no vanquished” declaration after the Nigerian Civil War.
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