Civil War Was Not About Hatred – Gowon Reflects on Nigeria’s Darkest Era

Former Nigerian Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon (rtd), has stated that the Nigerian Civil War was not driven by hatred, but rather by a complex web of political, social, and security challenges. Speaking at a recent public forum commemorating Nigeria’s unity and history, Gowon described the civil war period (1967–1970) as the most difficult time of his life, both as a leader and as a Nigerian.

Gowon, who led the country during the 30-month conflict between the federal government and the secessionist state of Biafra, emphasized that the war was never intended to be a campaign of ethnic or regional vengeance. According to him, the goal was to preserve national unity and prevent the disintegration of Nigeria in the wake of political instability and military coups that had already fractured trust among the country's regions.

He admitted, however, that the decisions taken during the war carried painful consequences, especially for innocent civilians caught in the crossfire. Gowon expressed deep personal sorrow over the human cost of the war, saying it weighed heavily on him then and continues to do so today. He also reiterated his long-standing call for continued national reconciliation, healing, and a collective commitment to learning from the past.

The former leader’s remarks come amid renewed discussions around national identity, marginalization, and the legacy of the civil war in contemporary Nigeria. Many Nigerians, especially the youth, have been calling for greater historical transparency and dialogue about the conflict. Gowon’s reflections serve as both a historical insight and a cautionary reminder of the dangers of division and the enduring necessity of unity in diversity.

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