A former Military Head of State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon (rtd) has revealed how former military Head of State, Gen. Ibrahim Babangida restored his rank and honour after he was accused of taking part in a coup he knew nothing about.
Gowon disclosed this on Thursday in Abuja at the unveiling of Babangida’s autobiography titled, “A Journey in Service” and the launching of his presidential library.
He also recalled when he visited the school to enlist Babangida, and 14 others into the army.
Gowon noted: “And I learned that you are the one who made sure that Dimka either escaped rather than be arrested. And of course, yes, the accusation of me being either being the one who encouraged Dimka…
“Me, who had been trying all the time to make sure that other coups do not take place in Nigeria, and make sure that our army remained very loyal to the to the government of the day. And that was I started trying to deal with the coup and to ensure that the government of the day, you know continues. Unfortunately, that did not happen until the civilian government at the time decided to let the military take over until they can restore loyalty and discipline.
“But let me say this, yes, I had a very rough time. I was even charged for treason. Can you believe that, but however, such a force that I certainly didn’t believe that such a thing could happen.
“But however, later on, the president rescinded that order, restored my rank, restored my honor.”