Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has insisted that Nigerians need not apologize for seeking help from the international community to address the nation’s persistent insecurity.
He emphasized that lives are being lost daily, affecting people regardless of their religion, ethnicity, or political affiliation.
Speaking on Friday night at the Plateau Unity Christmas Carols and Praise Festival in Jos, Obasanjo strongly urged the Nigerian government to immediately deploy modern technology to stop the killings.
He stressed that no criminal should be beyond the reach of security agencies.
“In these days of technology, there should be nobody who can hide after committing a crime.
“Before I left government, we had the capacity to pick up anybody in Nigeria once identified… Every Nigerian life matters, whether Christian, Muslim or pagan. Nigerians are being killed; this must stop,” the former president said.
He insisted that Nigerians have the right to seek international partnerships if domestic efforts fall short, arguing that saving lives must remain the nation’s priority.
Also addressed the gathering, Plateau Governor Caleb Mutfwang expressed the hope that Nigeria would overcome its current trials and challenges.
“By the grace of God, those who want Nigeria destroyed will not succeed,” he declared, praying that national and state leaders continue to receive strength and wisdom to act rightly.
The governor explained that the annual carol event was inspired by the vision of uniting the people of Plateau through worship and thanksgiving.
“God is delighted when we come together in unity to exalt His name. Despite all odds, we are gathered again this year to celebrate the goodness of God in the land of the living.”
The governor expressed delight in the diversity of worshippers at the Carol service, saying Plateau citizens have put aside denominational differences to worship under one banner.
“With unity, we will shut the door against the enemy that troubles us,” he said.
Dignitaries at the occasion included Obasanjo, retired Gen. Lawrence Onoja, former Plateau Governors Joshua Dariye and Jonah Jang with his wife, Ngo Talatu, former Minister of Women Affairs, Dame Pauline Tallen, former Adamawa Governor Boni Haruna, former Chief of Defence Staff, retired Gen. Martin Luther Agwai and the GOC 3 Division, Maj.-Gen Folorunsho Oyinlola.
The event featured ministrations from renowned gospel artistes including Buchi, Uche Etiaba, Pastor Chingtok, and choirs drawn from various denominations.
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