Dr. Josef Onoh, brother-in-law to the late Biafran leader, Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu-Ojukwu, has refuted claims by former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, about a purported reconciliation with Ojukwu. Onoh clarified that what Gowon referred to as a reconciliation meeting was, in fact, a condolence visit following the death of his father, Chief C.C. Onoh, in 2009.
Onoh provided details of Gowon’s visit, stating it took place in Enugu in March 2010. “The purpose of his visit was to pay condolences for my father’s passing in 2009, as Gowon was unavailable during the burial. I was present, and the meeting was cordial but not a reconciliation,” Onoh explained. He added that during the visit, Ojukwu expressed no animosity towards Gowon and emphasized his opposition to a renewed Biafra attained through bloodshed.
Onoh also addressed a separate meeting in London later that year, describing it as a casual visit initiated by Ojukwu. Contrary to Gowon’s account, Onoh stated the interaction lacked the dramatic elements Gowon later recounted. “Gowon’s remarks about fears of assassination and other exaggerated claims are completely untrue. Ojukwu maintained his composure, even when Gowon displayed discomfort with the presence of Frederick Forsyth, Ojukwu’s biographer, during their conversation,” Onoh said.
According to Onoh, the London meeting highlighted Gowon’s insecurity around Ojukwu, both during their lifetimes and in historical narratives. He urged Gowon to avoid distorting history. “Ojukwu’s actions and words during these moments reflected his dignified character, and it is disappointing to see an attempt to rewrite events in a way that disrespects his legacy,” Onoh remarked.
Onoh emphasized his commitment to preserving the integrity of historical records surrounding Ojukwu. He concluded with an appeal for accuracy, stating, “The truth does not require embellishment, and the legacy of these two prominent figures in Nigeria’s history deserves honesty.”
