Ex-COAS Buratai Urges COVID-Style Lockdown To Tackle Terrorism, Banditry

Former Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai (retd.), has called on the Federal Government to adopt a nationwide mobilisation strategy similar to the COVID-19 lockdown in order to effectively combat terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping across the country.

Buratai, who spoke during an interview with Channels Television’s ‘Sunrise Daily’ on Friday morning, argued that insecurity should not be left to the military alone but treated as a national crisis requiring the collective sacrifice of all Nigerians.

“When there are national crises, we need to mobilise everybody, not just the military alone,” he said. “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.”

The former Army chief and one-time Nigeria’s Ambassador to Benin Republic, said he had long warned that the insurgency could extend far longer than anticipated if a comprehensive, long-term approach was not put in place.

“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 said.

He pointed to past instances of national unity in response to crises, recalling how Nigerians rallied behind Borno State during the Maiduguri flood disaster. According to him, such collective mobilisation could strengthen the ongoing fight against insecurity.

His remarks came against the backdrop of growing concerns over deteriorating security conditions in the country. The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), in its latest report, expressed alarm over worsening violations of the right to life and freedoms, noting that more than 50 people were reported killed in separate attacks within the week alone.

Buratai maintained that beyond military campaigns, there must be sustained civilian involvement through awareness and community engagement.

He said, “Citizens must be mobilised psychologically, through social media, press, and community support, to overcome what I describe as the so-called terrorists and bandits.”