Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has expressed deep concern over the rising insecurity in Nigeria, urging current leaders to take decisive steps toward addressing the menace.
Obasanjo stressed the need for proactive measures during his visit to Bauchi on Sunday, where he met with the Emir of Bauchi, Dr. Rilwanu Adamu.
Reflecting on his administration, Obasanjo emphasized that safeguarding lives and property was a top priority during his tenure.
He advised that the fight against insecurity should involve the cooperation of local leaders, noting that many criminal elements operate within communities.
“During our terms in office, we prioritized the security of lives and properties across the country. Right now, we need to do something urgently about this,” Obasanjo said.
He further underscored the importance of community policing, stating that residents are in the best position to identify and report suspicious activities.
“The best form of security is community policing because everyone knows his or her neighbours. With that, it is easy to identify the bad eggs,” he explained.
The former president also called on traditional rulers to actively support community policing efforts to curtail crime within their jurisdictions.
“I am calling on traditional institutions to step in and encourage community policing within their environment to reduce the spate of crimes,” Obasanjo urged.
Recounting his time in office, he stressed the importance of unity and collaboration in governance.
“During our service to the nation, we did everything collectively, with decisions taken together to maintain a uniform focus. My brother, Ahmed Adamu Mu’azu, can testify that our achievements were a result of collective efforts,” he said.
Obasanjo concluded by appealing for peace and unity among Nigerians. “We need peace, unity, and collective support in this country if we must move forward. Things can be right again if we get united and work together,” he added.
Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State, who accompanied the former president, informed the Council of Traditional Rulers that Obasanjo’s visit was part of activities celebrating the legacy of his administration.
During the visit, Obasanjo is scheduled to commission two newly completed road projects aimed at enhancing infrastructure, promoting state development, and improving transportation for residents.