Former Chief of Army Staff and ex-ambassador to Benin, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai (retd.), has asked President Bola Tinubu to declare Nigeria’s security challenges a national emergency.
Buratai warned that terrorism, banditry, and kidnappings may drag on for years if the government continues to rely on short-term solutions. His appeal comes after a string of deadly attacks, including the killing of more than 50 people at a mosque in Katsina and raids in Plateau State where at least 15 villagers lost their lives.
Speaking during a TV interview on Friday, the retired general said Nigeria must prepare for a long fight against insecurity. He noted that before leaving office, he had cautioned that the insurgency would not end quickly.
According to him, defeating terrorists requires the involvement of all Nigerians, not just the armed forces. He compared the situation to the COVID-19 response, where government and citizens worked together through awareness campaigns, relief efforts, and preventive measures.
Buratai added that similar unity could be applied in the North-West and other troubled areas, urging government and citizens to mobilise resources and support for affected communities.
“The fight against insecurity should be seen as a shared responsibility and treated with the urgency of a national emergency,” he said.
His comments came shortly after the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, alleged that some politicians are deliberately stoking violence ahead of the 2027 elections to undermine the government’s performance on security.
Buratai, however, stressed that only a nationwide, coordinated approach can bring lasting peace.
