Yakubu Gowon, born on October 19, 1934, was a prominent Nigerian military officer and the former head of state of Nigeria from 1966 to 1975. He rose to power following the Nigerian coup d’état in 1966, which overthrew the government and plunged the country into a state of political turmoil.

Gowon, a career soldier, was known for his calm and composed demeanor, which earned him the nickname “Go Slow Gowon.” During his tenure as head of state, he implemented policies to unite Nigeria’s ethnically diverse population, including his famous slogan, “To keep Nigeria one is a task that must be done.” Despite facing challenges of corruption and secessionist movements, Gowon worked to stabilize the country and became a respected figure both domestically and internationally.

However, Gowon’s rule took a significant turn in 1975 when he was overthrown in another military coup led by his chief of staff, General Murtala Ramat Mohammed. Gowon’s focus on stability and consensus-building had made him susceptible to criticism from more radical elements in the military, who accused him of being too cautious and indecisive.

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After his ousting, Gowon was exiled to the United Kingdom, where he lived in relative obscurity for several years. Despite his fall from power, Gowon remained active in various international organizations, advocating for peace, unity, and economic development in Africa.

In regards to the question of who killed Yakubu Gowon, it is essential to clarify that he was not killed. Unlike some of his counterparts who met violent ends, Gowon survived the coup and subsequent exile, allowing him to continue his involvement in diplomatic activities. Although his political career was successfully ended, his life was spared.

Yakubu Gowon’s rise to power marked a crucial period in Nigeria’s history, where he navigated the country through challenging times. While his leadership was not without flaws, he played a significant role in maintaining the territorial integrity of Nigeria and laying the foundation for subsequent democratic transitions.