As more reactions continue to trail former president Olusegun Obasanjo’s criticism of president Jonathan’s handling of the Boko Haram insurgency, another ex-head of state, Gen. Yakubu Gowon has thrown his weight behind the current administration while lampooning Obasanjo’s comments as ‘highly irresponsible’.
Gen. Gowon was speaking on the sideline at the launch of a book, “Stay at the top”, authored by a fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountant of Nigeria (ICAN), Mr. Omoniyi Komolafe.
Gen. Gowon is quoted to have told reporters: “Obasanjo is highly irresponsible to have made such comments about the present government.
Many people have condemned what he (Obasanjo) did in Odi and Zaki Biam. So, it was irresponsible for him to defend it or accuse the present administration.”
Gen. Gowon urged Nigerians to support the government so that the current challenges can be tackled collectively. He said: “I know people are concerned about the security situation in the country, but I can assure you that the government is doing everything possible to tackle the situation.
“I remember during my time as Head of State, when we also had grave challenges. Some people said it was impossible to unite Nigeria and that we could not achieve it. Some also said we could not move the state capital from Lagos to another city.
“But, eventually, we were able to subdue the security challenges. I can tell you, we would not have been able to do it, if we did not enjoy the support of Nigerians.
“I urge our people to love and defend the unity of this country at all times. The government should be given the needed support so that it will be able to function.”
