Gowon made the remarks in Abuja during the public unveiling of his autobiography titled, My Life of Duty & Allegiance, at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre.…....
The event attracted dignitaries and guests from different sectors who gathered to witness the presentation of the former military leader’s account of his years in public service and national leadership.
The retired military officer, who assumed office as Nigeria’s Head of State in 1966 during a turbulent period marked by political unrest and military intervention, explained that part of the reason for writing the autobiography was to document historical events accurately and address misconceptions surrounding his involvement in shaping the country’s history.
He stated that the publication was intended to serve as a contribution to Nigeria’s historical records and provide future generations with a clearer understanding of the circumstances and events that influenced the country’s development during his time in office.
Gowon further explained that his decision to write the book was not motivated by any desire to criticise individuals or reopen old national disagreements.
According to him, the autobiography was aimed at promoting a deeper understanding of Nigeria’s past and preserving important memories connected to the nation’s journey since independence.
The former Head of State also stressed that his experiences and Nigeria’s history could not be separated, noting that many of the defining moments in his personal life were closely linked with critical periods in the country’s evolution.
He maintained that presenting his account was necessary to ensure that his perspective on those events was properly documented.
“I only needed to tell my truth, not join issues with anyone or sit in judgment over what might be considered right or wrong,” he said.
“Speaking out also became necessary because my story and that of Nigeria were too intertwined.”
