Former Head of State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon, has disclosed how he appealed to the late Gen. Sani Abacha to halt the execution of ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo, who was sentenced to death in 1995 over a coup plot.

Speaking at the inaugural Unity Christmas Carol and Praise Festival in Plateau State, Gowon recounted sending a heartfelt letter, delivered by his wife at midnight, urging Abacha to show mercy. Gowon said, “I pleaded with him that God made him a leader to do good, not evil.”

The appeal contributed to Obasanjo’s eventual release and later rise to the presidency in 1999. Both Gowon and Obasanjo attended the event, celebrating unity and commending efforts to foster peace in the state.