Former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon (retd.), has warned Nigeria’s political class against desperation and what he described as “do-or-die politics.”
Gowon also criticised the persistent failure to conduct free, fair, and transparent elections, including within political parties.
The former military leader made the remarks on Tuesday during the launch of his 859-page autobiography titled My Life of Duty and Allegiance in Abuja.
President Bola Tinubu was represented at the event by Vice President Kashim Shettima.
Speaking at the book launch, Gowon said Nigerian politicians must urgently address the culture of political desperation that continues to threaten democracy and national stability.
“We all must rise to contain the desperation frequently accepted by the political class who engage in what they love to call do-or-die politicking and their inability to conduct free, fair and transparent elections, even in matters as minor as intraparty elections,” he said.
According to him, the failure to uphold credible electoral processes has remained a long-standing problem in Nigeria since the colonial era.
He warned that political actors must avoid actions capable of deepening division or weakening public trust in democratic institutions.
Despite the country’s challenges, Gowon expressed confidence that Nigeria would survive and continue to progress.
The former Head of State said his years in public service strengthened his belief that Nigeria still possesses the potential to become a stronger and more stable nation.
“Each time I reflect on my service to my country, I become further persuaded that Nigeria can get better and achieve her potentials as the giant of Africa,” he said.
“On my watch as head of state, the country did not fall, and I am confident that the nation, despite all its challenges, still will not fall.”
Gowon governed Nigeria between 1966 and 1975, a period that included the Nigerian Civil War from 1967 to 1970.
The former military ruler also criticised what he described as Nigeria’s habit of complicating simple national problems.
According to him, many issues become more difficult because leaders and institutions often introduce complicated solutions that create additional tension.
“I am worried that Nigerians never seem to get tired of presenting difficult solutions to simple problems, which they further complicate with more complex and ambiguous solutions that invariably generate tensions in the country,” he said.
Gowon’s autobiography, My Life of Duty and Allegiance, was launched nearly six decades after he first assumed power as Head of State.
The 859-page book spans 36 chapters and documents his early life in Plateau State, military training at Sandhurst, the Nigerian Civil War, his years in exile in the United Kingdom, and his experiences in national leadership.
The event attracted political leaders, military officers, diplomats, and other dignitaries from across the country.
Political analysts say Gowon’s remarks reflect growing concerns about political intolerance, electoral disputes, and internal party crises ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Observers also note that credible elections, stronger institutions, and political accountability remain central to deepening democracy and strengthening public confidence in governance.
