Obasanjo Tells FG To Act Firmly, Says Nigerians May Seek Foreign Protection If Insecurity Persists Former president Olusegun Obasanjo ha
s delivered one of his strongest public criticisms of the federal government’s handling of insecurity, saying Nigerians would not be out of place to seek assistance from the international community if the state fails to protect them. He made the remark in Jos at the Plateau Unity Christmas Carol, where his speech drew a quiet but tense response from the audience. The former leader said the country can no longer pretend that the situation is under control, warning that the responsibility to safeguard citizens is not optional. According to him, Nigerians “have the right to call on the international community when those meant to protect them fail to do so”, adding that repeated attacks across several regions have left families and communities vulnerable. Obasanjo cautioned the federal government against what he described as a pattern of offering apologies or entering negotiations with armed groups. He argued that such approaches undermine security efforts and encourage criminal elements. “Government should stop apologizing or negotiating with terrorists,” he said, urging a tougher security posture supported by modern intelligence tools, drones, and coordinated military action. He also drew a link between current events and earlier failures, recalling the abduction of the Chibok schoolgirls as a turning point, after which armed groups became more daring. He warned against interpreting the killings through ethnic or religious lenses. “We are being killed — no matter the religion you belong to, no matter where you come from,” he stated. His comments come at a time when several states in the north are experiencing repeated raids, mass abductions, and destruction of property. Although security agencies have intensified operations, many communities say the attacks continue with alarming frequency. Obasanjo’s intervention is expected to add pressure on the federal government, especially as criticism mounts over the pace and effectiveness of ongoing security reforms. Analysts note that his remarks reflect growing public frustration and highlight the widening gap between official assurances and the realities faced in rural and semi urban communities. The former president did not take questions after his statement, but his warning left a clear message: unless the government strengthens its grip on security, citizens may increasingly look beyond Nigeria’s borders for protection.
| 2025-11-29 17:03:19