Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has urged survivors and families of victims of the 1967 Asaba Massacre to embrace forgiveness and reconciliation, describing the tragedy as one of the most painful episodes of the Nigerian Civil War.
Obasanjo made the appeal virtually on Wednesday while serving as chairman of the occasion at the 59th anniversary memorial in Asaba. He said the war was an unfortunate event that should never have occurred and urged the people of Asaba to forgive while working to prevent similar tragedies from happening again.
Responding to the appeal, the Asagba of Asaba, Prof. Epiphany Azinge, said the people could forgive but would not forget the massacre, insisting that a sitting President must publicly apologise before there could be full closure. He also questioned the “never again” appeal, citing the Odi killings during Obasanjo’s presidency, while stressing the importance of remembrance, justice and reconciliation.
Despite the call for a presidential apology, Azinge publicly proclaimed forgiveness for the family of the late Col. Ibrahim Taiwo after his son, retired Maj.-Gen. Ahmed Taiwo, expressed regret and apologised on behalf of the family. Gov. Sheriff Oborevwori, represented by Secretary to the State Government Dr Kingsley Emu, said more than 1,000 people were estimated to have died, while pledging support for national recognition and a fitting memorial.
Preparations are also underway for the 60th anniversary next year, including efforts to establish a permanent memorial centre.
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