Nigeria’s former military ruler, Gen. Yakubu Gowon has absolved himself of any blame in the Biafra civil war, stating that it was not out of hatred for any people.
He made the assertion in Abuja on Saturday after he was honoured with a Life Time Integrity and Achievement Award at the 5th Convention of the Christian Men’s Fellowship, Anglican Diocese of Abuja.
Gowon, who was the country’s military leader during the 30 month civil war, said he had to be there, and described the civil war as the most difficult period of his life.
The war lasted from July 6, 1967 to January 15, 1970.
He said: “I always remember the civil war. It was the most difficult period of my life.
“It was not my choice, but I had to be there, and had to do what I did in order to keep this country together.
“It was never a hatred against any people, I can assure you.
“As far as this heart is concerned, everything that I do, it is through prayers.
“I ask God to help me to do the right thing the way He thinks it should be done, with love and respect for all the people.
“That is why at the end, what do we have to say? As they say: no victor, no vanquished.”