Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has declared that Nigeria must never be plunged into another civil war, stressing that the country cannot afford to relive the devastating consequences of the 1967–1970 conflict.
Obasanjo made the remark while speaking at a public event, where he reflected on the lessons of the Nigerian Civil War and the need for leaders and citizens to safeguard the country’s unity. He said the painful memories of the war should remain a constant reminder of the importance of peace, dialogue and national cohesion.
“God forbid Nigeria sees another civil war,” the former president said, urging Nigerians to shun actions and statements capable of deepening ethnic, religious and political divisions.
He noted that the civil war left millions dead, displaced countless families and inflicted severe economic and social setbacks on the nation. According to him, Nigeria’s diversity should be harnessed as a strength rather than allowed to become a source of conflict.
Obasanjo called on political leaders to embrace inclusive governance, fairness and justice, insisting that addressing citizens’ grievances through dialogue and constitutional means remains the best path to lasting peace.
He also appealed to the younger generation to learn from the country’s history and resist attempts by individuals or groups seeking to promote violence or disunity.
The former president maintained that preserving Nigeria’s unity is a shared responsibility, urging all stakeholders to work together in building a peaceful, stable and prosperous nation where future generations can thrive.