Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has called for urgent and decisive action to tackle Nigeria’s escalating insecurity, stating that the country can no longer afford excuses as citizens continue to lose their lives to banditry, kidnapping, and other violent crimes.
Obasanjo made the remarks on Friday, 28th November 2025, during the second edition of the Plateau Unity Christmas Carols and Praise Festival held at the Ten Commandments Prayer Altar in Du, Jos South Local Government Area.
Addressing an audience of government officials, religious leaders, and dignitaries, the former president expressed frustration over what he described as the government’s failure to adequately protect its citizens. He insisted that Nigeria, as part of the global community, has the right to seek international assistance if local capacity is insufficient.
“We Nigerians are being killed—Christians, Muslims, people from every tribe and background. Every Nigerian life matters,” Obasanjo declared. “If our government cannot stop the killings, then we have the right to appeal to the international community to help us. There should be no apology for that.”
He condemned the continuous cycle of violence, citing rampant banditry and the worsening trend of kidnappings, including the abduction of schoolchildren. According to him, excuses based on ethnicity, religion, or region are unacceptable in the face of mounting national tragedy.
Obasanjo also questioned why advanced technology such as satellite imaging and drone operations—tools that can track and neutralize criminals—are not being fully utilized in the fight against insecurity.
“In today’s world, no criminal can hide. We have the capacity to identify and locate them. So why are we not taking action? Why are we negotiating with criminals and even paying them? It has to stop,” he said.
The former president urged Nigerians to remain prayerful but emphasized that prayer must be backed with deliberate action and accountability from leaders at all levels.
Beyond his critique of the security situation, Obasanjo commended Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang for sustaining the Unity Christmas Carols, a programme he described as divinely inspired and capable of promoting peace and social cohesion. He suggested that the state work towards placing the festival on the global tourism calendar to attract international visitors.
Governor Mutfwang, in his remarks, expressed gratitude for the former president’s presence and acknowledged the attendance of several dignitaries, including former ministers, senior judges, and retired military officers. He reiterated the state’s commitment to unity, peace, and the preservation of Plateau’s cultural identity.
The 2025 Plateau Unity Christmas Carols and Praise Festival, which runs from 28th to 30th November, is organized by the Plateau State Government as part of broader efforts to reinforce peace, rebuild relationships, and celebrate the shared heritage of the Plateau people.