Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has said Nigerians are justified in seeking international assistance if the federal government fails to protect them from ongoing insecurity across the country.
Obasanjo made the remarks on Friday at the Plateau Unity Christmas and Praise Festival held at the Ten Commandments Prayer Altar in Dwei-Du, Jos South Local Government Area. He condemned the continued killings of citizens and criticized the government’s inability to prevent violence.
“We are being killed,” he said, stressing that Nigerians, regardless of religion, background, or profession, are increasingly vulnerable. “If our government cannot protect us, we have the right to call on the international community to do what our government cannot.”
The former president argued that security is the core responsibility of the state, and urged Nigerians to demand accountability at all levels of leadership. He insisted that leaders must act decisively to prevent further loss of life.
Obasanjo also referenced technological advancements that could aid security operations. He explained that during his time in office, authorities could identify and locate criminals, but lacked the means to apprehend them without deploying ground or air assets. With modern drone capabilities, he said, such operations are now possible.
“In these days of technology, nobody should commit a crime and hide,” he noted. “You can take them out. Why are we not doing that?”
He criticized the practice of negotiating with criminals and condemned the alleged payments made to armed groups, which he said government officials later deny.
Calling for urgent action, Obasanjo said Nigerians are tired of persistent violence. He emphasized that the lives of all citizens — whether Christian, Muslim, or traditional worshipper — must be respected and protected. “The killing should stop,” he added.