"This is the longest period of uninterrupted democratic rule we have had in the country. In itself, that is an achievement. However, what democracy has delivered to the people is also a matter of concern," he said.

He also said criticism alone would not solve the problem, urging leaders at all levels to focus on practical solutions.

"The reality on the ground is that the security challenges are widening. So, for me, rather than criticising, it is better to advise.

"The President, working together with state governments, should declare a national emergency on security. Governance should change so that the number one, two and three priorities are security in all its facets," he said.

He stressed that the government could no longer operate as though the country was experiencing normal conditions, describing the current security situation as being close to a state of war.

"You can't be talking about rural electrification and so many other things when we have these security challenges. Government resources should be largely targeted at addressing insecurity.

"You cannot deal with the security issue without massive manpower enhancement, training, equipment and logistics. It has to be a combined effort involving the Federal Government, states and local governments," he added.

Makarfi warned against politicising insecurity, insisting that the challenge affects all Nigerians irrespective of political affiliation.

"I don't want this thing politicised. If we politicise it, we will not achieve results. We have a big problem and we have to do something about it," he said.