Former Kaduna State Governor and former National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Ahmed Makarfi, has urged President Bola Tinubu to declare a national state of emergency on insecurity, stating that the country's growing security challenges require urgent and coordinated action.
Speaking with journalists at his residence in Kaduna on Sunday, Makarfi said Nigeria's worsening insecurity demands extraordinary measures from all levels of government. He also opposed any attempt to deregister political parties ahead of the 2027 general elections, insisting that parties that meet the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) requirements should be allowed to participate.
According to him, although Nigeria has enjoyed its longest uninterrupted democratic rule since 1999, the gains of democracy are being threatened by increasing insecurity and economic hardship.
Makarfi stressed that security should be the government's foremost priority, arguing that improvements in safety would positively impact the economy and overall well-being of citizens.
"The security situation is expanding and becoming more complex. Rather than criticising, my advice is that the President, in collaboration with state governments, should declare a national emergency on security. Government priorities should be centred on addressing security challenges in all forms," he said.
He noted that the current security situation resembles a state of conflict and should not be treated as routine governance. He added that a larger share of government resources should be directed towards tackling insecurity before pursuing other developmental projects.
The former governor also called for stronger cooperation among federal, state and local governments, as well as increased funding, manpower, training, equipment and logistics for security agencies. He further urged political leaders to avoid politicising insecurity, stressing that the crisis affects all Nigerians regardless of political affiliation.
On electoral matters, Makarfi rejected calls for the deregistration of political parties, describing such a move as unnecessary and capable of creating suspicion of political interference.
He maintained that any party that complies with INEC guidelines should be allowed to contest the 2027 elections, while urging political parties to uphold internal democracy through proper congresses, conventions and primary elections.
Addressing the internal crisis within the PDP, Makarfi advocated reconciliation and dialogue among party members, saying unity and respect for due process remain essential for the party's survival.
He expressed confidence in the future of the PDP, describing it as a well-established political party with deep roots across the country.
Makarfi, who will turn 70 in August, also ruled out any plans to seek elective office again, saying he would rather support younger leaders and contribute to national development in other ways.
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