Gowon Releases Memoir on Nigeria's Military Coups

Yakubu Gowon, the former head of state of Nigeria, has published a memoir that recounts his life and duties during a tumultuous period in the nation's history, specifically focusing on the military coups that began on January 15, 1966, and the ensuing civil war. Gowon stated that he had refrained from writing a memoir for decades to avoid reopening old wounds but decided to change his mind to preserve historical truths and counter misinformation propagated by various individuals, including Alexander Madiebo and others.

The memoir details Gowon's military career, including his training at the Joint Services Staff College in the UK and his rise to power amidst the political turmoil of the 1960s. He reflects on the dynamics within the military leadership and the events leading up to the coups, including the assassination of key military figures.

Gowon emphasizes the importance of documenting these experiences for future generations.