Obasanjo Calls for Forgiveness at Asaba Massacre Memorial

On the 59th anniversary of the Asaba Massacre, former President Olusegun Obasanjo called for forgiveness and reconciliation among the Asaba community. Participating virtually as the chairman of the memorial event, he described the massacre as one of the most painful episodes of the Nigerian civil war and expressed his sorrow upon receiving documents about the event from Chuck Nduka-Eze, the Isama Ajie of Asaba.

Obasanjo emphasized the need to prevent such tragedies in the future. However, Professor Epiphany Azinge, the Asagba of Asaba, countered the call for forgiveness, stating that true closure requires a public apology from the current President Bola Tinubu.

Azinge also referenced the Odi killings during Obasanjo's presidency, questioning the sincerity of the "never again" appeal. Despite his stance, Azinge offered forgiveness to the family of Colonel Ibrahim Taiwo after an apology from his son, retired Major-General Ahmed Taiwo.

Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, represented by Kingsley Emu, noted that over 1,000 people died in the massacre and pledged support for national recognition and a permanent memorial.