Former Kaduna State Governor and ex-National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Ahmed Makarfi, has called on President Bola Tinubu to declare a national emergency on insecurity, warning that the country’s worsening security situation requires urgent and extraordinary intervention.
Makarfi made the call during an interaction with journalists at his Kaduna residence on Sunday, where he spoke extensively on the state of the nation, the future of Nigeria’s democracy, preparations for the 2027 general elections, and the ongoing challenges facing the PDP. The former governor expressed deep concern over the persistent wave of insecurity across various parts of the country, arguing that the scale and complexity of the crisis had gone beyond conventional security responses.
According to him, the continued activities of bandits, terrorists, kidnappers, and other criminal groups have created an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty that threatens national stability and economic growth. He maintained that while successive administrations have made efforts to combat insecurity, the current situation demands a more coordinated and comprehensive national strategy.
Makarfi said a declaration of a national emergency on insecurity would enable the government to mobilise all available resources, strengthen inter-agency collaboration, and adopt exceptional measures necessary to restore peace and protect citizens. He noted that insecurity remains one of the biggest obstacles to Nigeria’s development, affecting agriculture, commerce, education, and investment across several regions.
According to him, many communities have been displaced by violence, farmers are unable to access their farmlands, and businesses continue to suffer losses due to criminal activities and security threats. The former governor stressed that security should remain the foremost responsibility of government, adding that meaningful development cannot take place in an environment where lives and property are constantly under threat.
Makarfi acknowledged that Nigeria’s uninterrupted democratic journey since 1999 represents a significant national achievement, especially considering the country’s history of military rule. He described the sustained democratic experience as evidence of the resilience of Nigeria’s institutions and the commitment of citizens to democratic governance.
However, he warned that democracy can only thrive when citizens feel safe and confident that government institutions are capable of protecting them. He argued that the inability to effectively address insecurity has weakened public trust in governance and slowed national progress. The former PDP chairman also turned his attention to the political landscape ahead of the 2027 general elections, expressing opposition to any move aimed at deregistering political parties.
Makarfi insisted that all political parties that have complied with the guidelines and requirements established by the Independent National Electoral Commission should be allowed to participate freely in the electoral process. According to him, democracy thrives on inclusiveness, competition, and the freedom of citizens to associate with political platforms of their choice.
He cautioned against policies that could restrict political participation, noting that a vibrant multiparty system remains essential to democratic growth and national development. The former governor argued that smaller political parties often serve as important platforms for emerging leaders and alternative ideas, contributing to a healthier democratic environment.
He maintained that as long as parties comply with electoral regulations and constitutional provisions, they should not be denied the opportunity to contest elections. Speaking further on preparations for the 2027 elections, Makarfi called on political stakeholders, electoral authorities, security agencies, and civil society organisations to work together to ensure a transparent, credible, and peaceful electoral process.
He emphasized the need for reforms that would strengthen electoral integrity and boost public confidence in democratic institutions. On the crisis within the PDP, Makarfi acknowledged that the party has faced internal challenges in recent years but expressed optimism that it remains capable of overcoming its difficulties.
He urged party leaders and members to prioritise unity, dialogue, and reconciliation in order to reposition the opposition party ahead of future elections. According to him, internal disagreements are not unique to the PDP and can be resolved through sincere engagement and respect for democratic principles.
The former governor said strong opposition parties are essential to the health of any democracy because they provide alternative perspectives, hold governments accountable, and offer voters meaningful choices. Political analysts believe Makarfi’s comments reflect growing concerns among stakeholders over the country’s security situation and the need for comprehensive measures to address it.
His call for a national emergency on insecurity comes amid increasing reports of banditry, kidnappings, communal conflicts, and other forms of violent crime across several states. The remarks are also expected to contribute to ongoing national discussions about electoral reforms, democratic consolidation, and preparations for the next general election cycle.
As Nigeria continues to navigate complex security and political challenges, Makarfi’s intervention underscores the growing demand for stronger action against insecurity and a commitment to preserving democratic freedoms as the nation looks ahead to 2027.
