By Samuel Adeola
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has criticised the Federal Government for negotiating with bandits, insisting that Nigeria must take decisive action and seek international support if necessary to end worsening insecurity.
Speaking at the Plateau State Unity Christmas Carol and Praise Festival in Jos, Obasanjo condemned what he described as the government’s “apologetic” stance toward terrorists, despite rising attacks across the North.
His remarks follow a series of mass kidnappings, including the abduction of 315 students and 13 teachers from St. Mary’s Catholic School, Niger State; the kidnapping of 26 schoolgirls in Kebbi; and multiple attacks in Kano, Kwara, and Niger States.
Obasanjo said Nigerians have the right to demand foreign intervention if their government cannot guarantee their safety.
“If our government cannot do it, we have the right to call on the international community to do for us what our government cannot do,” he stated.
He also questioned why security agencies are not deploying available technology to target criminal networks.
“With drones, we can take them out. Why are we not doing that? Why are we apologising? Why are we negotiating?” he asked.
