Obasanjo leadership appeal stresses prayer for leaders and urgent action as insecurity rises, urging Nigeria to embrace technology against crime

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has said during a Christmas Carols event in Jos that the Obasanjo leadership appeal is driven by a need for national unity as insecurity continues to grip the country.

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He told the gathering that Nigerians must pray for leaders at all levels so they can succeed in rebuilding a stronger and safer nation.

Obasanjo acknowledged that government carries the primary duty of protecting lives and property, yet insisted that citizens also have a role to play by supporting leadership through prayer and vigilance.

He described the escalation of banditry and kidnapping as deeply troubling, emphasising that the killings cut across religion and ethnicity.

He noted that Nigeria possesses the capacity to confront the crisis head-on. Drawing attention to past incidents such as the Chibok abductions, he said the persistence of criminal activity demands firmer action from those in authority.

He urged governments across the country to rise to the moment and fulfil their obligations.

Obasanjo stressed that modern tools offer powerful advantages in the fight against insecurity. According to him, with effective use of technology, criminals should have no place to hide.

He argued that equipment like drones could help locate offenders quickly, questioning why authorities continue to rely on negotiation rather than decisive intervention.

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He reaffirmed that every Nigerian life matters, regardless of faith or background, and called on leaders to adopt practical solutions that reflect the urgency of the situation.