Terrorism: Retired Generals back calls for state of emergency

Terrorism in Nigeria: Retired Generals Rally Behind Calls for State of Emergency

In a significant development amid Nigeria’s ongoing battle against terrorism, a coalition of retired senior military officers has publicly endorsed the call for a state of emergency to combat the persistent threat posed by Boko Haram and other insurgent groups.

This call was originally made by General Lucky Irabor (retired), former Chief of Defence Staff, who argues that Nigeria’s counterterrorism efforts have been hampered by a lack of political will and insufficient national mobilization.

General Irabor’s appeal is rooted in his newly released book, Scars: Nigeria’s Journey and the Boko Haram Conundrum, where he asserts that the Nigerian government has yet to fully commit to a decisive war against terrorism. He proposes that a formal declaration of emergency, sanctioned by the National Assembly, would enable the government to harness all facets of national power, economic, political, social, diplomatic, informational, and military, under strong leadership to decisively defeat insurgents.

According to Irabor, such a move would galvanize the country’s institutions and resources, ensuring a more focused and coordinated response to the crisis.

The urgency of this proposal is underscored by recent escalations in terrorist activity. Boko Haram has intensified its operations in northern Nigeria, notably capturing the border town of Kirawa in Borno State.

This attack displaced over 5,000 residents, who fled to neighboring Cameroon after their homes, a military barracks, and the district head’s palace were destroyed. In another incident, the group assaulted a military base in Borno, resulting in the deaths of four soldiers and the destruction of military assets.

Although a subsequent attack on Banki was repelled, the frequency and scale of these assaults have raised alarm across the country. Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State has since called for increased military presence in border communities to stem the tide of violence.

Retired military leaders have echoed Irabor’s sentiments with strong endorsements. Brigadier General Peter Aro (retired) described the proposal as “apt and informed by operational and strategic experience,” emphasizing that Irabor’s insights stem from years of service at various command levels. Aro stressed that any state of emergency must be genuine and devoid of political interference to allow military commanders the autonomy needed for effective coordination.

Major General Dayo Olukoju (retired) also supported the call but advocated for a multilateral strategy that addresses the root causes of terrorism. He emphasized the importance of combining military action with socio-economic and diplomatic efforts to achieve lasting peace. Colonel Saka Folusho (retired) added another dimension to the discussion, warning that the proliferation of illegal arms must be tackled to prevent further destabilization. He argued that without curbing the arms trade and improving the welfare and equipment of soldiers, even a state of emergency would fall short of its objectives.

The Northern Elders Forum, represented by Professor Abubakar Jiddere, has also voiced support for the emergency declaration, aligning with the retired generals’ stance. The Forum emphasized the need for a comprehensive and sustained approach to security, urging the federal government to act decisively.

This growing chorus of support from seasoned military professionals and regional stakeholders reflects a deepening concern over Nigeria’s security architecture. Their collective call for a state of emergency is not merely a reaction to recent attacks but a strategic push for a paradigm shift in how the country confronts terrorism.

Whether the federal government will heed these calls remains to be seen, but the pressure is mounting for a bold and unified response to one of Nigeria’s most enduring threats.