Former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar (rtd), has shed light on one of the critical political disagreements that preceded the Nigerian Civil War, explaining why the then Eastern Region leader, Colonel Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, refused to recognise General Yakubu Gowon as Nigeria’s Head of State following the 1966 military crisis.
Abdulsalami made the remarks while reflecting on the historical tensions that culminated in the 30-month civil conflict between 1967 and 1970, which remains one of the most defining and tragic periods in Nigeria’s history.
According to him, the disagreement stemmed largely from issues surrounding the legitimacy of the military government that emerged after the July 1966 counter-coup, which brought Gowon to power following the assassination of Major General Johnson Aguiyi-Ironsi.
He explained that Ojukwu, who was then the Military Governor of the Eastern Region, questioned the constitutional and military basis of Gowon’s emergence, arguing that proper chain-of-command procedures within the military hierarchy had not been fully observed.
Abdulsalami noted that the breakdown in trust between both sides was further deepened by ethnic tensions, mutual suspicion, and disagreements over the restructuring of Nigeria’s federal system during the period.
He said the failure to reach a political settlement at critical stages of the crisis contributed significantly to the escalation of hostilities that eventually led to the declaration of the Republic of Biafra in 1967.
The former Head of State stressed that the lessons of the civil war remain relevant to Nigeria’s unity and stability today, warning that unresolved grievances and political mistrust can quickly escalate into national conflict if not properly managed.
He called for continued reflection on the country’s history, particularly the importance of dialogue, inclusive governance, and respect for institutional processes in preventing political breakdowns.
Abdulsalami also emphasized the need for younger generations to understand the circumstances that led to the civil war, noting that historical awareness is essential for national reconciliation and peacebuilding.
The Nigerian Civil War, which lasted from 1967 to 1970, resulted in significant loss of life and displacement, leaving a lasting impact on the country’s political and social landscape.
Historians continue to examine the complex interplay of military coups, ethnic tensions, and political disagreements that shaped the events leading up to the conflict.
Abdulsalami’s comments add to ongoing discussions by elder statesmen on how Nigeria can sustain unity and avoid a repeat of past divisions through stronger institutions and inclusive governance.
