…Opposes deregistration of political parties
Former Kaduna State governor and former National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Ahmed Maƙarfi, has called on President Bola Tinubu to immediately declare a national emergency on insecurity, warning that the worsening security situation across the country requires urgent and coordinated action.
Maƙarfi stated this yesterday, during an interaction with newsmen at his Kaduna residence, where he addressed issues including insecurity, the state of Nigeria’s democracy, preparations for the 2027 elections, and the lingering crisis within the PDP.
The former governor said the escalating wave of kidnappings, banditry, terrorist attacks, communal clashes and other violent crimes in several parts of Nigeria has become a major threat to national stability, economic growth and the well-being of citizens.
According to him, the level of insecurity being witnessed across the country has reached a critical stage, making it imperative for the Federal Government to adopt extraordinary measures to tackle the challenge. He stressed that security should remain the foremost responsibility of government, noting that no meaningful development can take place in an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty.
The former governor urged the administration to strengthen collaboration among security agencies, improve intelligence gathering, provide adequate equipment and welfare for security personnel, and work closely with state governments and local communities to address the root causes of violence.
Makarfi also expressed concern over the impact of insecurity on farming activities, business operations and investment, warning that continued attacks on communities could worsen food insecurity and economic hardship across the country.
On the political front, the former PDP chairman cautioned against any attempt to deregister political parties ahead of the 2027 general elections. He argued that a vibrant multi-party system remains essential for democratic development and political inclusion.
He maintained that every political party that satisfies the constitutional and electoral requirements set by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) should be allowed to participate in the electoral process without discrimination. According to Maƙarfi, democracy thrives when citizens are presented with diverse political choices, adding that efforts to limit participation could undermine public confidence in the electoral system.
He called on electoral authorities and relevant institutions to ensure a level playing field for all political parties ahead of the next general election, stressing that adherence to democratic principles and the rule of law would strengthen Nigeria’s democratic culture.
