ICYMI: I was frightened when I became head of state, says Gowon

Yakubu Gowon, a former military ruler, says he was “petrified” when he became Nigeria’s head of state.

Gowon assumed office in 1966 at the age of 32.

He ruled the country during a civil war that lasted for more than two years and which led to the death of millions of people.

According to The PUNCH, Gowon spoke on ‘How I Became Head of State at 32’ at an event organised by ANISZA Foundation and Gallery.

The event was a virtual reality history competition with the theme ‘Sustaining Peace Together’.

“I felt petrified when I took over as Head of State. I never planned to be the President, it just happened,” Gowon was quoted as saying.

A statement by the foundation also quoted the former head of state as asking participants of the event to remain committed to a united country.

“The octogenarian who relived some of his life experiences and counselled young Nigerians on the right attitudes and values further engaged the participants at the virtual event on national issues, especially the role youths can play in national development,” it read.

“Among the participants were also select school children who are members of the ANISZA School Club, some of whom sat around Isioro during the conversation with the former head of state.

“General Gowon also interacted with the participants on issues ranging from their identities, views on ‘one Nigeria’ and their personal commitments to ensure the nation remains united.

“With a lot of wits and humour, he also admonished young people, traditional and religious institutions to take up the responsibility of securing the national identity, saying everyone has major roles to play in harnessing national values that will spur growth and development across all sectors of the Nigerian life.”