Former Senate Minority Leader Enyinnaya Abaribe has urged ex-Military Head of State General Yakubu Gowon to author a detailed book.
Specifically, he emphasized documenting the leader’s firsthand 1966 coup experiences for historical clarity.
By chronicling pivotal events, Abaribe argues Gowon’s account would preserve critical insights, bridging gaps in Nigeria’s political narrative while fostering informed public discourse.
Abaribe made this appeal during a press conference on Thursday, ahead of his 70th birthday celebration scheduled for this weekend.
The senator decried the persistent characterization of the 1966 coup as an “Igbo coup,” describing it as a deliberate attempt to tarnish the image of the Igbo people.
“Throughout Nigeria’s history, whenever anything happens, they always use the Igbo head to break the coconut,” Abaribe lamented.
He urged General Gowon, who was a central figure during the events leading up to the Nigerian Civil War, to provide an accurate historical narrative to counter long-standing misconceptions.
“We are still waiting for General Gowon’s book because he was a key player during that period. Nigerians deserve to hear his account of those critical events,” Abaribe stated.
Criticism of Babangida’s Book and Justice Nyako’s Role in Kanu’s Trial
Abaribe also addressed controversies surrounding former Head of State General Ibrahim Babangida’s recently launched book. He criticized certain claims made in the publication, particularly efforts to absolve Babangida of contentious decisions made during his regime. The senator expressed disappointment over what he described as attempts to rewrite history for self-exoneration.
Switching focus to the ongoing trial of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, Abaribe expressed shock that Justice Binta Nyako had resumed jurisdiction over the case despite previously recusing herself. He reiterated his call for a political solution to Kanu’s case, emphasizing that his release would help restore peace in the South East region.
“The continued detention of Nnamdi Kanu is a source of tension in the South East. A political solution is necessary to heal wounds and foster unity,” Abaribe asserted.
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Marginalization of the South East and Praise for Regional Governors
The senator did not hold back in criticizing the Federal Government for what he described as the continued marginalization of the South East. He argued that despite the region’s significant contributions to Nigeria’s development, it remains sidelined in national governance.
Abaribe called on President Bola Tinubu to address these injustices and ensure that the South East receives its fair share in the country’s affairs.
However, Abaribe commended some South East governors for their developmental strides.
He praised Governors Alex Otti (Abia), Peter Mbah (Enugu), and Charles Soludo (Anambra) for their transformative leadership. In particular, he lauded Governor Otti for his visible impact in Abia State.
“Governor Otti is doing extremely well for Abia. His leadership is transformative, and you can already see the results, especially in Aba. My advice to him is simple: keep doing what you’re doing,” Abaribe said. He added that good governance is not rocket science but rather a product of focused and competent leadership.
Launch of Abaribe’s Book
As part of his 70th birthday celebrations, Abaribe announced that he would be launching his own book on Saturday at the International Conference Centre (ICC) in Umuahia.
The book is expected to capture his political journey and perspectives on national issues.
The senator concluded by expressing optimism about Abia State’s future under Governor Otti’s leadership, predicting brighter days ahead for the state and its people.
