Former President Olusegun Obasanjo on Wednesday has warned that Nigeria must never be allowed to descend into another civil war, stressing that many of the conditions that triggered the  still persist.

Obasanjo made this remark in Abeokuta, Ogun State, while receiving a historical documentation on the  from the Isama Ajie of Asaba, Chief Chuck Nduka-Eze.

The work, titled Asaba Massacre, consists of a published transcript and an audiovisual documentary based on eyewitness accounts, recorded interviews, archival materials, and extensive historical research.

Speaking at the event, Obasanjo, who served as a military commander during the war, explained that he had often refrained from discussing the Asaba Massacre in detail because the area was under the command of the late  at the time.

He commended Nduka-Eze for documenting the tragic event, noting that such efforts are vital for preserving Nigeria’s history and preventing future occurrences.

“We pride ourselves on preserving the past, capturing the present, and inspiring the future. This is the past, we must capture it and understand it,” Obasanjo said.

Reflecting on his personal experience, the former president recounted intervening during the war to stop a soldier from committing rape, emphasizing the importance of accountability in military operations.

He expressed concern that many of the grievances that led to the civil war remain unresolved.

“Some of the things that led to the civil war are still with us. How long will this continue?” he asked.

Obasanjo also referenced a remark by former Head of State, , warning that Nigeria may not survive another civil war.

“I believe we have fought one civil war too many already. To suggest a second civil war, God forbid,” he said.

He urged Nigerians to learn from history, condemn past atrocities, and commit to ensuring such a tragedy never happens again.

“For us to truly say ‘Never again,’ we must ask ourselves what we are going to do differently. We must do everything humanly possible to prevent a recurrence,” Obasanjo added.

He concluded by reaffirming his personal commitment to peace and national unity, stating, “I will do everything possible to ensure it never happens again.”