Jigawa State governor Umar Namadi said calls by former Chief of Army Staff, General Theophilus Danjuma, for self-defence, will lead to more deaths and devastation in the country.
Elder statesman General Danjuma against the back of rising attacks on communities across the country by suspected Fulani herdsmen reiterated his long-held view that citizens should armed themselves and fight back at the invaders of their land.
“The warning I gave some years ago still holds true today. Nigerians must rise and defend themselves,” Danjuma declared last weekend in Taraba State.
“We cannot continue to stand by as bandits, terrorists, and criminal gangs massacre our people unchecked,” he added.
But governor Namadi who was speaking during a chat on Channels TV Monday said General Danjumi suggestions was anarchical.
“He (Danjuma) is a very senior security person and should be respected. However, suggesting that citizens should defend themselves could incite anarchy. His words need to be carefully analysed.
“Since we took office, we’ve employed various strategies, brought in experts, and engaged traditional rulers. We’ve also set up committees to facilitate communication with the people,” he said.
“Now, the community understands that violence is not the answer. We are not at a point where citizens need to defend themselves.”
He added that establishing State Policing will go a long way at arresting the country’s security challenges.
“The concept of State Police is still very much alive. Several states have shown interest, and discussions are ongoing at the National Economic Council. I believe it will eventually be implemented.”
