In a bold statement that has sparked renewed discussions about Nigeria's past, Senator Victor Umeh of Anambra State has called on former Nigerian military leader, General Yakubu Gowon, to write his own book and publicly apologize to the Igbo people for the atrocities committed during the Nigerian Civil War (1967-1970).
Senator Umeh, known for his outspoken views on national unity and the recognition of historical injustices, made the remarks in a recent interview with journalists. He emphasized the importance of acknowledging the pain and suffering that the Igbo community endured during the civil war, particularly under Gowon’s leadership, who was at the helm of the country’s military government during the conflict.
"The Igbo people went through an incredibly difficult period during the Civil War, with millions of lives lost, families torn apart, and entire communities destroyed. General Gowon, who presided over the federal forces, has yet to offer a direct apology or take full responsibility for the war’s devastating consequences," Senator Umeh said. "It is high time that he not only write his own book to offer his perspective but also sincerely apologize to the Igbo people."
Senator Umeh's call comes on the heels of recent public discussions about reconciliation and the ongoing need for healing from the wounds of the Civil War, which left a deep scar in the collective memory of the nation. While some leaders have acknowledged the impact of the war, there has been little formal effort to extend an apology or make reparations to the Igbo people, who were disproportionately affected.
The Senator also emphasized that a book written by Gowon, sharing his personal experiences and insights into the events of the Civil War, would go a long way in helping Nigerians, especially the Igbo community, understand the leadership decisions that led to the conflict and its aftermath.
“An apology is not just a gesture; it’s a crucial step towards healing a nation that still grapples with the consequences of its past,” Umeh continued. “The Igbo people deserve recognition for the horrors they experienced, and the nation as a whole would benefit from a truthful, reflective process that fosters unity and reconciliation.”
General Yakubu Gowon, who served as the head of state from 1966 to 1975, has occasionally spoken about the Civil War and its aftermath. However, his comments have often been met with mixed reactions, especially in the southeastern region of Nigeria, where memories of the war's devastation are still vivid.