This post has already been read at least 11167 times!
By Charles Edet Esq.
The growing chorus of influential Nigerians calling for citizens to be empowered for self-defence is no longer a fringe opinion. It is a reflection of a nation increasingly traumatised by terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, armed robbery, and insurgency.
Across many parts of Nigeria, citizens are asking a painful question: How long can unarmed communities continue to face heavily armed criminals without the legal means to protect themselves and their families?
The latest voice to join this call is the Emir of Argungu, Alhaji Muhammad Samaila Mera of Kebbi State, who urged residents of his emirate to legally acquire weapons to defend themselves against persistent attacks by bandits.
According to reports, the respected traditional ruler advised communities to obtain licensed firearms and organise lawful community protection mechanisms, arguing that criminals would think twice before attacking communities capable of defending themselves.
The Emir’s position did not emerge in a vacuum. It echoes years of frustration expressed by prominent Nigerians who believe that citizens should not be left helpless while waiting for security forces that may be hundreds of kilometres away.
Former Defence Minister and elder statesman, General Theophilus Yakubu Danjuma (rtd), repeatedly warned Nigerians that they must rise to defend themselves when attacked.
Legal scholars, security experts, and public affairs commentators have also argued that self-defence is recognised under Nigerian law.
More recently, Presidential spokesman Daniel Bwala publicly stated that Nigerians possess the constitutional right to defend themselves against unlawful attacks, although firearm ownership remains subject to legal regulations.
The reality confronting millions of Nigerians today is grim. Entire communities have been overrun by terrorists and bandits. Farmers have abandoned their farmlands. Travellers fear highways. Children have been abducted from schools.
Villages have been razed while survivors recount stories of waiting hours, or even days, for security intervention. Reports continue to show that insecurity remains one of Nigeria’s greatest national challenges despite ongoing military operations.
A citizen who cannot sleep because armed criminals may strike at any moment is already living under psychological captivity. The first responsibility of government is the protection of lives and property.
However, where criminal elements possess sophisticated weapons and attack defenceless populations, many Nigerians believe communities should be legally empowered to establish regulated self-defence structures.
The argument is simple: criminals attack because they are confident their victims cannot resist.
This is not a call for lawlessness or indiscriminate proliferation of weapons. Rather, it is a call for a carefully regulated framework that allows responsible citizens, community vigilantes, farmers, and residents of vulnerable rural areas to obtain licensed firearms after proper screening, training, registration, and monitoring.
Such a policy would complement—not replace—the efforts of the military, police, civil defence, and intelligence agencies.
Countries facing security threats often encourage lawful community defence mechanisms. An armed and trained citizenry serves as an additional deterrent against criminals.
Terrorists and kidnappers thrive where communities are weak, isolated, and defenceless. They retreat where resistance is organised and credible.
The National Assembly and the Federal Government should therefore commence serious discussions on expanding lawful access to self-defence weapons under strict regulations.
Simultaneously, the long-delayed debate on State Police must be concluded. Communities that contribute intelligence, vigilance, and lawful defensive capacity are better positioned to protect lives while security agencies pursue broader counter terrorism objectives.
Nigeria’s citizens are not asking for the right to wage war. They are demanding the right to stay alive. When criminals carry assault rifles into villages while law-abiding citizens are left with nothing but prayers and panic, the balance of security tilts dangerously in favour of evil.
The call by the Emir of Argungu is therefore more than a traditional ruler’s opinion; it is a reflection of a growing national frustration.
Government must listen before more communities are abandoned, according to media reports.
A nation where citizens can confidently defend their homes, farms, and families under the law is a nation where criminals will think twice before pulling the trigger. That conversation can no longer be postponed.
Dr. Charles Edet Esq. writes from Abuja, Nigeria.
This post has already been read at least 11167 times!
About the Author
