A former Chief of Defence Staff, General Lucky Irabor (retd.), has said his new book on Nigeria’s battle with Boko Haram should not be seen as an indictment of anyone but as a call for national reflection.
Irabor spoke on Friday at the public presentation of his book, Scars: Nigeria’s Journey and the Boko Haram Conundrum, in Abuja, according to Channels Television.
He said, “Scars, the Journey, and Boko Haram Conundrum is not an indictment; it is a national soul-searching presentation. It is an awakening reality to either act dutifully for progress, or do nothing and turn towards extinction.”
The retired general described the work as an “awakening reality” intended to stimulate conversation on credible solutions to Nigeria’s security challenges.
“The account in this book is the painful truth as I see it. It is my hope that it will elicit a national conversation aimed at focusing attention on credible solutions to the challenges. As we unveil this book, I invite you to join me on a journey of reflection, empathy, and hope,” he said.
Irabor stressed that the book should serve as an opportunity for Nigerians to reflect on past experiences and recommit to justice, equity, and peace.
While recalling the atrocities committed by Boko Haram, he urged the nation to remember the victims and learn lessons from the collective struggle against insurgency.Related News
He also disclosed that proceeds from the book would be channelled to schools and hospitals that he and his family have continued to support.
“For me, this book is not a narrative; it is a call for sustained hope and optimism. Scars is quite optimistic that collectively, we can turn our scars into victories of nationhood,” Irabor stated.
Speaking at the same event, Former President Olusegun Obasanjo lamented that the Boko Haram insurgency has become entrenched in Nigeria, warning that the menace has gradually been accepted as part of the country’s daily reality.
Also present at the event were former President Goodluck Jonathan, service chiefs, former and serving governors, and clerics.
Jonathan, while speaking at the occasion, disclosed that Boko Haram insurgents once nominated then-General Muhammadu Buhari as their preferred negotiator in peace talks with his administration.
He said his government had explored multiple committees and approaches to end the insurgency, but the crisis proved more complex than often portrayed.
