Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has sharply criticised the government’s failure to curb Nigeria’s widespread insecurity — calling the ongoing killings “a shame for Nigeria” and urging citizens to seek assistance from the international community if authorities cannot guarantee their safety.
He also wondered aloud: “why are we negotiating (with terrorists)? Below is an African Independent Television (AIT) extract of his comments.
Speaking on Friday at the 2025 Plateau Unity Christmas Carols and Praise Festival in Jos, Obasanjo said the value of Nigerian lives transcends tribe or religion. His remarks came during what was meant to be a celebration of unity, faith and hope.
The festival — a three-day event — features worship, prayers and gospel performances by artists such as Sinach, Buchi and Loretta, along with Bible quizzes and scripture recitations for participants.
But rather than delivering a standard seasonal message, Obasanjo used the platform to challenge those downplaying the violence. He dismissed as “nonsensical” and “unacceptable” arguments that attribute the killings to ethnic, regional or religious divisions. “If we are being killed, it is the responsibility of government to do something about it… we are being killed and the killing of Nigerians should be stopped,” he insisted.
As frustration mounts over persistent insecurity, he asserted Nigerians have a right to call on the global community for help. “We are part of the world community. If our government cannot do it, we have the right to call on the international community to do for us what our government cannot do for us,” Obasanjo declared, adding that citizens “should have no apology for that.”
Acknowledging the importance of prayer, he cautioned that faith alone would not suffice. “We will pray and we will continue to pray,” he said, “but when we pray, we should also work.” He urged all levels of government and leadership to act decisively to preserve lives.
He concluded with a sobering reminder: each Nigerian life lost to criminals is not just a personal tragedy but a national disgrace. “Every Nigerian life that is lost is a shame for Nigeria,” he said. His remarks have refocused national attention on the urgent need for concrete action and, if necessary, international solidarity — even during the holiday season.
