A retired Nigerian Army General, Brigadier-General Kapeh Alwali Kazir (retd.), has opposed calls for a state of emergency in Northern Nigeria, insisting that the region’s security challenges can be resolved through strong political will and commitment from the Federal Government.
In an exclusive interview with Arewa PUNCH in Damaturu, Kazir responded to recent demands by the Northern Elders Forum for emergency rule, stating that such measures should only be considered in extreme circumstances.
“Undermining democratic governance at the sub-national level is undesirable, except where absolutely necessary,” he said.
Kazir argued that no sitting governor would support an emergency declaration, especially given the significant investments already made by state governments to improve security.
“What is needed now is the central government’s resolve to fully deploy all instruments of national power to restore peace and order,” he added.
The retired general outlined several key measures for addressing insecurity, including the deployment of additional troops to troubled areas, the use of advanced surveillance technology for real-time intelligence gathering, and enhanced international collaboration to cut off resources to criminal networks.
He stressed that with the right equipment, strategic guidance, and sustained support, security forces are capable of restoring stability across the North.
Kazir emphasized that political will—particularly from the Federal Government—is crucial. “It’s not just about troop numbers or hardware; it’s about leadership and commitment to using every tool available to win this fight,” he said.
Reaffirming his stance, he insisted that a state of emergency is unnecessary if the government demonstrates firm resolve and strategic coordination.
Efforts to obtain comments from the Security Adviser to the Yobe State Governor, Brigadier-General Dahiru AbdulSalam, were unsuccessful as he did not respond to phone calls or text messages as of press time.