Obasanjo Blasts Debate on Whether Christians or Muslims Are Dying More, Says Government Must Seek Help

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has described as nonsensical the ongoing debate over whether more Christians or Muslims are being killed in Nigeria, stressing that the government’s responsibility is to bring all perpetrators to justice — and seek external assistance if it cannot do so.

Speaking at the second edition of the Plateau State Unity Christmas Carol and Praise Festival, Obasanjo stated that the technology to track criminals across Nigeria had been available before he left office in 2007, noting that the challenge at the time was the lack of adequate capacity to apprehend them.

Addressing the massive crowd at the event, the former president criticised the classification of victims along religious or ethnic lines, insisting that Nigerians were being killed irrespective of tribe or faith.

Former president Obasanjo began his remarks by assuring Christians of God’s sustaining grace amid the nation’s current hardships. He also applauded Governor Caleb Mutfwang for initiating a programme that unites people across divides in Plateau State.

Quoting Jesus’ message of hope, Obasanjo declared, “In this world we will have trouble, but I have lived in the world and I have overcome, and so, you will overcome.”

He continued:
“The government should stop the killing of Nigerians, no matter their religion, tribe, or region. We are being killed, and the killing must stop.

“We have a right — yes, a right as Nigerians — to appeal to the international community for help, and we should offer no apology for that.”

Obasanjo insisted that arguments over which religious or ethnic group suffers more casualties are unacceptable. He stressed that prayer must go hand in hand with action, urging citizens to demand accountability from leaders at all levels.

While acknowledging the enthusiastic reception he received, he maintained that if government institutions are overwhelmed, they must seek assistance. He reiterated that Nigeria had already developed the capacity to track criminals before he left office, and with today’s improved tools, perpetrators can easily be identified.

“We should ask our leaders to do what they must do, at all levels and in all sectors, to protect life. And because we belong to a global community, we should also appeal for international support,” he added.

“For me, every Nigerian life lost is a shame to Nigeria. Every life taken by criminals, regardless of the justification, brings shame to the nation. We must ensure Nigeria gets what it needs.”

The event featured several dignitaries, including Governor Caleb Mutfwang, former Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Luther Agwai, and former state governors Senators Jonah Jang, Joshua Dariye, and General Lawrence Onoja.

Notable gospel artistes such as Femi Coker, Buchi, Uche Etiaba, and Pastor Chingtok Dangwel led the congregation in worship. The programme continues on Saturday, with Sinach scheduled to minister.