By: Ojay Matthew
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has said Nigerians have the right to seek assistance from the international community whenever they feel the government is unable to guarantee their safety.
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 of Plateau State.
He expressed concern over the persistent killings across the country, insisting that citizens, regardless of their background, are not adequately protected.
“It is unreasonable for anyone to suggest that Nigerians must remain silent. People are being killed daily, irrespective of religion, origin or occupation, and our government appears unable to safeguard its citizens,” he said.
“As members of the global community, if our government cannot protect us, we are justified in appealing to the international community for support. Security is the primary responsibility of any government, and when that fails, citizens should demand accountability at all levels of leadership.”
Speaking on the role of modern technology in crime-fighting, Obasanjo argued that no criminal should be able to evade detection in an era dominated by satellite surveillance.
The former President recalled that during his administration, security agencies already had the capability to track suspects anywhere in the country, though certain limitations existed at the time. He explained that such limitations had since been addressed with the adoption of drones and other advanced tools.
“Today, we have the technology to trace and neutralise criminal elements remotely. So why are we not deploying it? Why are negotiations taking place? And why does government deny engaging with criminals even after making payments?” he queried.
Obasanjo urged the government to take decisive action, stressing that Nigerians are weary of the unrelenting violence.
“We are tired of these killings. Whether Christian, Muslim or traditionalist, every Nigerian life counts. The bloodshed must end,” he said.
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