Former Nigerian Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon has revealed that he had prior knowledge of the 1975 coup that removed him from office, but chose not to act on the intelligence because he was unbothered and focused on Nigeria’s broader interests.

In a rare and candid interview, Gowon disclosed that ahead of the July 29 coup—carried out while he was attending an Organisation of African Unity (OAU) summit in Kampala, Uganda—he was alerted by trusted sources that elements within his administration were planning to overthrow him.

“I knew about the plan,” Gowon said. “I was told it was going to happen by a special group. I didn’t bother to find out who they were. I was only told two names very close to me, and I wasn’t surprised.”

The coup, which was announced in his absence on national radio by Brigadier Joseph Garba, ended Gowon’s nine-year rule and installed General Murtala Mohammed as Nigeria’s new leader. It was justified by the military conspirators as a response to Gowon’s postponement of a promised return to civilian rule, growing dissatisfaction with his leadership, and perceived governmental inefficiency.

Gowon, however, maintained that the coup did not come as a shock. He explained that his focus at the time was on strengthening Nigeria’s international role, especially in the decolonisation of African nations. According to him, he had travelled to Uganda to lead the charge for African liberation and to coordinate diplomatic efforts on behalf of the continent.

“I went to Kampala to do exactly what they said Nigeria had come of age to do,” he said. “I wanted to show that no foreign power could dictate to us and that we could lead Africa to end colonial rule.”

He also dismissed suggestions that he attempted to cling to power. Gowon noted that his administration had promised to hand over power by 1976, but internal divisions among military governors and the threat of political instability made him reconsider the timeline.

“The infighting was reminiscent of the pre-January 1966 crisis. I was genuinely afraid that a rushed return to civil rule could collapse the country,” he explained.

Gowon’s remarks shed new light on one of Nigeria’s most pivotal transitions of power. Despite the coup, he harbours no bitterness. Reflecting on his ouster, he said he remained proud of his service to Nigeria and bore no grudges against those who led the transition.

“They said it was our boys that removed me. I knew many of them personally. But I wasn’t worried. I was doing what I believed was right for Nigeria and Africa,” he said. (AriseNews TV)