Former Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai (retd.), has urged the Federal Government to consider a nationwide mobilisation similar to the COVID-19 lockdown to defeat terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping.
Buratai, who spoke in an interview with Channels Television on Friday, argued that insecurity should not be left to the military alone but treated as a national crisis requiring collective sacrifice.
He said, “When there are national crises, we need to mobilise everybody, not just the military alone. Look at COVID-19—how much was spent, how much was invested into information, communication, advertisement, palliatives, and preventive measures.
“The whole nation was locked down because of COVID-19. We can do the same thing. We can lock down this country to make sure that everybody concentrates and deals with this cankerworm of so-called terrorists and bandits.”
He noted that before leaving office as Chief of Army Staff, he had warned that the insurgency could last longer than expected if a long-term strategy was not adopted.
He said, “Just before I left office, and immediately after I was appointed ambassador to the Republic of Benin, I sent a note of warning that this insurgency may last longer. It is not something that you just wish away. We really need to have a long-term plan.”
Buratai also referenced collective efforts during the Maiduguri flood crisis, when Nigerians rallied to support Borno State, stressing that a similar approach could strengthen the fight against insecurity.
His remarks come as the National Human Rights Commission, in its latest report, raised concerns over worsening violations of the right to life and freedoms. The commission lamented that despite government efforts, over 50 people were reported killed in separate attacks this week alone.
Buratai maintained that beyond military campaigns, citizens must be mobilised “psychologically, through social media, press, and community support” to overcome what he described as the “so-called terrorists and bandits.”
