Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has raised significant concerns over Nigeria’s escalating violence, asserting that the nation is in dire straits and may require international assistance if the government fails to safeguard its citizens. His remarks were made during the second edition of the Plateau State Unity Christmas Carol in Jos on December 22, 2023, where he addressed the pressing issue of national insecurity.
Obasanjo expressed his alarm at the persistent state of violence and crime in Nigeria, describing it as having reached an “intolerable point.” He noted, “One problem we have is insecurity, and it has been with us.” He emphasized that the issue is not new and has persisted through various administrations. Since the notorious kidnapping of the Chibok girls, he remarked that insecurity has only worsened.
The former president criticized narratives that attempt to justify the killings based on ethnic or religious affiliations, labeling such views as “dangerous and unacceptable.” He stated, “For anybody at any time to say that when Nigerians are being killed, the explanation is that those killed belong to this group or another group is nonsensical.” His call for unity among Nigerians reflects a broader concern for national identity amid the ongoing violence.
Obasanjo urged government officials at all levels to fulfill their constitutional duty to protect citizens. “The first responsibility of any government is the protection and security of its citizens,” he said, lamenting what he perceives as a failure of the current government. He warned that citizens might justifiably seek help from the international community if local authorities remain ineffective. “If our government cannot do it, we have a right to call on the international community to do for us what our government cannot do,” he asserted.
The former president also questioned why security agencies do not leverage available technology to combat crime. He pointed out that with advancements like drones, it should be possible to track and neutralize criminal gangs effectively. “In these days of technology, nobody should be able to hide anywhere after committing a crime,” he stated. His comments highlight a growing frustration with the lack of action in addressing security challenges.
Obasanjo firmly stated that the ongoing violence must cease, declaring, “Every Nigerian life that is lost is a shame for Nigeria. We are tired of being killed. The killing of Nigerians must stop.”
State Leadership Responds
Governor Caleb Mutfwang, who also spoke at the event, characterized the Unity Carol as a testament to Plateau State’s commitment to healing and unity in the face of adversity. He emphasized the importance of collective worship, stating, “Individually, we can worship God in our homes, but God is delighted when we come together as a people in unity.”
Mutfwang stressed that progress in the state hinges on internal cohesion. “Plateau is a blessed state, but we have not been able to achieve much because we are fighting one another,” he remarked. He called for a focus on unifying factors rather than divisive issues, asserting that unity is essential for effectively addressing insecurity. “With unity, we will be able to shut the door against the enemy that troubles us,” he added.
The Plateau Unity Christmas Carol, initiated in 2022, serves as a three-day festival of worship aimed at bridging ethnic, religious, and political divides within the community. The event underscores the need for solidarity and a collective response to the challenges facing Nigeria.
As the nation grapples with increasing violence, Obasanjo’s call for urgent action and Mutfwang’s emphasis on unity resonate strongly in a climate of uncertainty and fear. The hope remains that through collaboration and support, Nigeria can address its security concerns and foster a safer environment for all its citizens.
