Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has raised fresh concerns over Nigeria’s unity, saying the nation must learn from its painful history and prevent the outbreak of another civil war. Speaking on Wednesday at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library in Abeokuta, where he received historical documents and eyewitness accounts on the Asaba Massacre from Chief Chuck Nduka […]
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has raised fresh concerns over Nigeria’s unity, saying the nation must learn from its painful history and prevent the outbreak of another civil war.
Speaking on Wednesday at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library in Abeokuta, where he received historical documents and eyewitness accounts on the Asaba Massacre from Chief Chuck Nduka Eze, Obasanjo said the country cannot afford to repeat the mistakes of the past.
He noted that several of the factors that fueled the 1967 civil war remain present today, warning that Nigerians must deliberately address them before they develop into another national crisis.
The former president called on citizens to adopt a “never again” mindset, insisting that preserving the memory of the civil war and the Asaba Massacre will help strengthen national unity and prevent future conflicts.
Obasanjo recalled General Yakubu Gowon’s warning that Nigeria might not survive another civil war, adding that the country has already suffered enough from one devastating conflict.
He also reflected on his role during the civil war, explaining that he was not directly involved in the operations surrounding the Asaba Massacre but remained committed to ensuring soldiers under his command acted responsibly. He recounted stopping a soldier from attacking a civilian as an example of leadership accountability.
He promised to carefully study the materials presented to him and urged Nigerians to overcome ethnic suspicion, promote reconciliation and work together to safeguard the country’s unity.