A former Head of State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon, has stated that despite the imperfections in democracy, the era of military rule must remain behind Nigeria.
Gowon made this statement at the unveiling of a book titled “Military Factor in Nigerian History, 1960-2018” by the Historical Society of Nigeria (HSN).
Gowon said, “The era of military governance is and must remain behind us.
”Democracy, despite its imperfections, provides the best framework for national development and popular participation.”
He added that the armed forces must fully embrace their constitutional role as defenders of the nation’s territorial integrity, not as administrators or political actors.
Gowon described the military factor in Nigerian history as a complex narrative of an institution that had been deeply intertwined with the country’s national journey.
He noted that the question of whether the military has been a hero or villain in Nigeria’s development journey is perhaps the most contested.
Gowon acknowledged that military rule stifled democratic development, sometimes violated civil liberties, and created structures that enabled corruption.
He said, “However, by acknowledging these mistakes, we pave the way for a brighter, more democratic future.”
Gowon advised the armed forces to become more integrated with civilian institutions and society, saying the military should not stand apart from the people but should be seen as an essential component of the national fabric.
In his remarks, Retired Gen. Lucky Irabor, former Chief of Defence Staff, said the military had made immense contributions to the peace and development of Nigeria.
He listed some of the achievements and interventions of military regimes, including the establishment of the National Youth Service Corps programme and development of shipping lines.
The book reviewer, Prof. Patrick Ukase, described the 598-page book as a well-researched work that analyzed the various military regimes in the country.
Ukase said the book is a vital resource and highly recommended for the Nigerian military, scholars, students, policymakers, and security professional.
The Acting President of the Historical Society of Nigeria, Prof. Zara Kwaghe, said the idea of the book was conceived in recognition of the military’s major role in the unity and development of Nigeria. She urged the military to continue supporting the nation’s development and unity.
