The Call for a State of Emergency in Nigeria
In the wake of a resurgence in insurgency, banditry, and other violent crimes across various parts of Nigeria over the past month, there have been renewed calls for the declaration of a state of emergency in the affected states. This move is seen by many as a potential solution to the ongoing security challenges that have plagued several regions.
The federal government has historically used emergency rule to address violent conflicts, restore law and order, and ensure the rule of law when groups take up arms against the state. However, the current situation raises questions about whether this approach is still viable, what form it should take, and what alternative solutions could be explored to address the root causes of the violence.
Regions Affected by Violence
There has been a noticeable increase in cases of violent crime 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 insecurity.
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 argued that declaring a state of emergency is the best way to deal with the security situation. Irabor emphasized that the lack of political will to take drastic actions has hindered Nigeria’s response to insurgency. He suggested that an emergency proclamation backed by the National Assembly would rally all elements of national power towards ending the conflict.
Calls from Civil Society and 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. It warned that if the worsening situation is not urgently addressed, communities may resort to “self-help,” which could trigger anarchy and undermine Nigeria’s democratic stability and regional peace.
Other security experts and groups support the position. For example, the Kwara South Youth Congress (KSYC) recently called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to declare a state of emergency in Kwara State following worsening insecurity in the state. In an open letter to the president, the group highlighted that many communities have been forced to relocate due to repeated bandit attacks.
However, not everyone agrees that a state of emergency is the only solution. Major General U.I. Muhammed (rtd.) noted that while declaring a state of emergency can reduce insecurity, it does not solve the problem entirely. He pointed out that issues like the proliferation of small arms and light weapons, porous borders, and poverty must also be addressed. He emphasized the need for science and technology at the borders and investments in human capital to reduce the pool of people drawn into criminality.
The Legal Framework for Emergency Rule
Under Section 305 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999, 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 emergency period, after which normalcy will return.
Current Situation in Affected States
In Borno State, Boko Haram terrorists have attacked many places, targeting both civilians and security locations. Recent major attacks include one in Kirawa, where two people were killed, and another in Darul Jamal village, where more than 60 people were killed. The Nigerian Air Force reported killing 30 militants in strikes after receiving reports of the raid on the village.
In Kebbi State, members of the Lakurawa terror group have carried out attacks across the state, forcing many residents to flee their homes. Similarly, in Niger, bandits have taken over many communities, carrying out frequent attacks that kill residents and destroy properties. In Katsina State, bandits continue to attack communities, leading to deserted areas and shut-down schools and businesses.
Zamfara, Sokoto, and Plateau States are also experiencing similar challenges, with farmers and herders too afraid to work due to the constant threat of attacks. A fact-finding committee established earlier this year revealed that over 11,000 people have been killed, and property worth millions of naira destroyed in 13 local government areas.
Previous Cases of Emergency Rule
Historically, Nigeria has declared states of emergency in various instances. In May 1962, then Prime Minister Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa declared a state of emergency in the Western region. Under President Olusegun Obasanjo, emergency rule was revived in Plateau State in 2004. More recently, President Goodluck Jonathan declared a state of emergency in Plateau State in 2011, and in 2013, Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa states were placed under emergency rule.
President Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State in March 2025 due to rising political tension, suspending the governor, deputy, and legislature while appointing a sole administrator.
Ongoing Debates and Future Steps
Despite these measures, the problem persists, prompting debates on whether emergency rule is the right solution. Some argue that it is necessary, while others criticize its use as a tool for political control. The question remains: Is emergency rule the solution, and what other approaches can be adopted to address the deep-rooted causes of insecurity?
As the situation continues to evolve, the need for a comprehensive and sustainable approach to security remains critical. Addressing issues such as poverty, border security, and the proliferation of weapons must be part of any long-term strategy to restore peace and stability in the affected regions.
