Presidency replies Obasanjo on terrorism
The Presidency has fired back at former President Olusegun Obasanjo over his recent comments on insecurity, insisting that terrorism took root in Nigeria during his time in office. The response followed Obasanjo’s public criticism of the current administration over the rising insecurity across parts of the country, a statement that quickly stirred political reactions nationwide.
In its reply, the Presidency stated that records clearly show that Nigeria’s major terrorism challenge began under Obasanjo’s administration. It pointed to the early activities of extremist groups during that period and stressed that the foundations of the current security crisis were laid long before the present government assumed power. The Presidency accused the former leader of attempting to rewrite history and shift blame for a problem that developed during his own tenure.
Government officials further explained that successive administrations have faced the difficult task of containing and reversing the damage already done. They added that the current leadership is confronting the security challenges with sustained military action, intelligence coordination, and regional cooperation. According to the Presidency, while the problem remains serious, significant progress has been made in weakening terrorist networks and reducing their capacity in several regions.
The exchange between Obasanjo and the Presidency has intensified political debate over responsibility for Nigeria’s long-running insecurity. Analysts say the comments reflect deeper disagreements over how the country’s security crisis began and how best it should be resolved. Many Nigerians, however, continue to focus on the urgent need for lasting solutions rather than political blame.
About the Author
