Former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon (Rtd.), has called on Nigerians to firmly reject any return to military governance, declaring democracy as the most viable framework for national growth, unity, and citizen engagement.

Gowon made the remarks in Abuja on Wednesday during the public presentation of the book “Military Factor in Nigerian History, 1960–2018”, launched by the Historical Society of Nigeria (HSN) as part of its 70th anniversary celebrations.

“The era of military governance is and must remain behind us. Democracy, despite its imperfections, provides the best framework for national development and popular participation,” Gowon stated.

Speaking as the chairman of the occasion, the elder statesman urged the Nigerian military to remain steadfast in its constitutional role as a defender of national sovereignty and security, rather than an actor in politics.

“The armed forces must fully embrace their constitutional role as defenders of the nation’s territorial integrity, not as administrators or political actors,” he said.

Reflecting on Nigeria’s historical experience with military rule, Gowon described it as a “complex narrative”—one that includes both contributions and contradictions. He acknowledged the military’s positive impact during the civil war and infrastructure development, while also addressing its adverse effects on democratic progress.

“With the wisdom that comes from age and reflection, I believe the answer lies somewhere in between. On one hand, the military preserved national unity during the civil war and built infrastructure. On the other hand, military rule stifled democratic development, violated civil liberties, and fostered corruption,” Gowon said.

He also highlighted the military’s commendable role in regional peacekeeping, while urging the armed forces to evolve into a modern, intelligence-driven institution aligned with democratic values.

“The military should not stand apart from the people but should be seen as an essential component of the national fabric, working in tandem with civilian authorities,” he noted.

Touching on the Nigerian Civil War, Gowon described it as the nation’s most painful experience but also one that reinforced the indivisibility of the country.

He concluded with a call for sustained civil-military cooperation and regional stability anchored in constitutional order and democratic governance.