Former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, has revealed that the creation of 12 states in Nigeria during his tenure was aimed at preventing the country’s fragmentation and reducing tensions between regions.
Gowon explained that the decision was made to address fears of northern domination by other parts of the federation. He emphasized that the north had to make sacrifices to alleviate these concerns, given its size and population.
The former head of state also encouraged northern elites to prioritize national unity and the greater interest of Nigeria. He stressed that differences in opinion should not hinder cooperation and that the country’s diversity is a strength.
Gowon’s comments were made during a visit by the Senator Ibrahim Shekarau-led League of Northern Democrats. He commended the group’s efforts to promote national unity and encouraged them to engage with other groups working on a new constitution.
Source: Vanguard.
