Renewed Calls for State of Emergency in Nigeria Amid Escalating Violence
In the wake of a surge in insurgency, banditry, and other violent crimes across various regions of Nigeria, there have been renewed calls for the declaration of a state of emergency in the affected states. This move comes as a response to the increasing threat to public safety and the breakdown of law and order in several parts of the country.
The federal government has historically used the emergency rule to address violent conflicts, restore order, and ensure the rule of law in situations where groups have taken up arms against the state. However, the current situation raises questions about whether this approach is sufficient and what form it should take. Additionally, alternative solutions are being explored to tackle the growing security challenges.
Regions Affected by Rising Violence
Violent crime has seen a noticeable increase in the North West, North East, North Central, and South Eastern parts of Nigeria. States such as Borno, Kebbi, Katsina, Zamfara, Sokoto, Kwara, Niger, Benue, and Plateau have recorded high and frequent cases of violence. These areas are experiencing attacks that have disrupted daily life, forced communities to relocate, and created an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty.
At a public presentation of a book titled Scars: Nigeria’s Journey and the Boko Haram Conundrum by former Chief of Defence Staff, General Lucky Irabor (retd.), some top military officers expressed the view that declaring a state of emergency is the best way to deal with the current security situation. According to Irabor, the lack of political will to take drastic actions has hindered Nigeria’s response to insurgency. He argued that a proclamation of emergency backed by the National Assembly would rally all elements of national power towards ending the conflict.
Calls from Civil Society and Security Experts
The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) recently urged President Bola Tinubu to declare a state of emergency in Northern Nigeria, citing escalating insecurity that has devastated lives, crippled economic activities, and threatened national stability. In a communiqué signed by its spokesperson, Prof. Abubakar Jiddere, the forum expressed grave concern over the “relentless wave of violent attacks, abductions, and killings” across the region.
Other security experts and groups also support the idea of a state of emergency. The Kwara South Youth Congress (KSYC) called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to declare a state of emergency in Kwara State following worsening insecurity. However, some argue that there may be better approaches than simply declaring a state of emergency.
Perspectives from Security Experts
Major General U.I. Muhammed (rtd.) highlighted that while a state of emergency could reduce insecurity, it is not a complete solution. He pointed out the need to address issues such as the proliferation of small arms and light weapons, porous borders, and poverty. He emphasized that without securing the borders and addressing the root causes of insecurity, the problem will persist.
Dennis Amachree, a national security analyst and former Assistant Director, Department of State Security (DSS), supports a declaration of state of emergency in the North East and North West but warns against the sack of democratic institutions under emergency rule. He believes that the mode of implementation should vary from previous instances, such as in Rivers State.
Legal Framework for State of Emergency
According to the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as amended, the president has the power to declare a state of emergency in the whole country or any part thereof if the country is involved in a crisis caused by human or natural phenomena. The purpose of this provision is to enable the president to restore peace and order during the period of emergency, after which normalcy will return.
Impact of Violent Attacks
In Borno State, Boko Haram terrorists have launched numerous attacks targeting both civilians and security locations. Recent major attacks include one in Kirawa, a border town to Cameroon, where two people were killed, and over 50 homes were burnt, including the palace of the district head. Another attack in Darul Jamal village resulted in more than 60 deaths, with insurgents ransacking the town and burning down several houses.
In Kebbi State, members of the Lakurawa terror group have carried out attacks across many local government areas, forcing residents to flee their homes. Similarly, in Niger, bandits have taken over many communities, killing residents and destroying properties. In Katsina State, daily attacks have led to deserted communities and closed schools and businesses.
Findings of the Fact-Finding Committee
A fact-finding committee inaugurated earlier this year to investigate the violence submitted its report in September. The committee’s chairman, retired Major General Rogers Nicholas, disclosed that over 11,000 people, including men, women, and children, have been killed, and property worth millions of naira destroyed in 13 LGAs. The report highlighted the staggering human cost and widespread destruction of livelihoods.
Resolving the Situation
While some argue that a state of emergency is the solution, others question its effectiveness and suggest alternative approaches. Brigadier General John Sura (rtd.) proposed the use of mercenaries, as was done during the Goodluck Jonathan administration, to maintain neutrality in the fight against banditry and insurgency.
Historical Context of Emergency Rule
Emergency rule has been declared in Nigeria on several occasions. In May 1962, then Prime Minister Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa declared a state of emergency in the Western region. During President Olusegun Obasanjo’s administration, emergency rule was revived in Plateau State in 2004 due to violence. More recently, President Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State in March 2025 due to rising political tension.
Despite the legal framework and historical precedents, the use of emergency rule remains controversial. While some argue that it is necessary to address the current security challenges, others criticize its potential impact on democratic institutions.
