Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo has publicly expressed gratitude to former Head of State General Yakubu Gowon for intervening during a dark chapter in his life under the late General Sani Abacha’s regime. Obasanjo’s remarks came in response to Gowon’s recent revelation about the role he played in advocating for Obasanjo’s release during his imprisonment.

Speaking on Sunday, Obasanjo acknowledged Gowon’s efforts, admitting he was unaware of Gowon’s personal intervention until it was revealed a day earlier.

“I want to acknowledge my boss, General Yakubu Gowon,” Obasanjo began. “Yesterday, he made a revelation, and I have to thank you specifically for that. When I came out of prison, I had the opportunity to thank friends, inside and outside the country, who contributed to appealing and praying for my release.

“And I went around the world thanking those who had been involved in my release. But I did not know that you wrote a personal letter for my release until you said it yesterday; I thank you for that.”

General Gowon had shared during an event on Saturday how he personally pleaded with the late General Sani Abacha to spare Obasanjo’s life after Obasanjo was implicated in a purported coup plot in 1995. Obasanjo was subsequently sentenced to death, though the sentence was later commuted to life imprisonment.

Gowon’s appeal, coupled with pressure from international and local actors, played a part in ensuring Obasanjo’s survival during his three years in prison.

Reflecting on the outcome, Gowon expressed joy at Obasanjo’s eventual rise to the presidency in 1999, a year after Abacha’s death.

Obasanjo, who had served as Nigeria’s military head of state from 1976 to 1979, was arrested during Abacha’s regime and accused of plotting against the government. His imprisonment drew widespread condemnation from the international community, with numerous leaders and organizations campaigning for his release.

Abacha’s sudden death in 1998 paved the way for a political transition that saw Obasanjo emerge as Nigeria’s civilian president in 1999, a role he held for two terms until 2007.

The exchange between the two former leaders highlights a significant moment of camaraderie and mutual respect in Nigeria’s political history. Obasanjo’s acknowledgment underscores the importance of Gowon’s quiet diplomacy, which remained unknown to Obasanjo for decades.

Their interaction serves as a poignant reminder of the behind-the-scenes efforts often required to navigate Nigeria’s turbulent political landscape, as well as the enduring bonds among the nation’s leaders, despite political differences.