In a dramatic call to action, Nigeria’s former Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Tukur Buratai (Retd.), has proposed a nationwide lockdown as a strategy to combat the country’s spiraling security crisis. Speaking on Channels TV’s Sunrise Daily program, Buratai suggested the government implement measures similar to those used during the COVID-19 pandemic to “flush out terrorists, bandits, and kidnappers.”
Buratai, who served as Army Chief from 2015 to 2021, argued that a unified national effort is needed to address the persistent threat of insecurity. “We can lock down this country to make sure everybody concentrates and deals with this cankerworm called terrorists, bandits, kidnappers, and so on,” he stated.
The former Army Chief drew a direct comparison to the national response to the pandemic, highlighting the significant resources and collective effort that went into containing the virus. He believes a similar mobilization could be achieved to tackle insecurity. “Look at COVID-19, how much was spent? How much was invested into information, into communication… so much that the whole nation was locked down,” he said. “But we can do the same thing.”
Buratai’s proposal comes amid increasing public concern and calls for more decisive action against banditry and terrorism. He also cited the collective response to the Maiduguri flood as another example of how Nigeria can unite to address a crisis. He emphasized that the fight against insecurity is not just a military one, but requires the full support of all citizens.
Recalling his time in office, Buratai noted that he had previously warned about the prolonged nature of the conflict. He stressed the need for a long-term plan, stating, “It is not something that you will just wish away.”
Buratai’s unconventional solution has ignited debate, with many questioning the feasibility of a large-scale lockdown to curb crime and terrorism. His remarks underscore the severity of Nigeria’s security challenges and the search for new, more effective strategies to restore peace and stability.
