A northern group Arewa Grassroot Leaders Assembly said calls for citizens to defend themselves against terror by Boko Haram, bandits and other murderous criminals were genuine and has called on the Federal government to grant permission for citizens to carry arms.
According AGLA president Collins Onogu, citizens taking up arms would help tackle insecurity in the North.
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja Wednesday, Onogu called on the government to legalise the possession of AK-47s for self-defence in rural communities. He also urged the Federal Government to deploy more security personnel to the affected areas and establish a task force to investigate and apprehend perpetrators.
He said, “This is a grim reminder of the security challenges facing our nation.
“We demand that the government legalise the possession of AK-47s for self-defence in rural communities, with proper monitoring and regulation.
“We propose that the government support community-led security initiatives, including community vigilante groups and neighbourhood watches.
“AGLA will continue to monitor the situation and hold the government accountable for the safety and security of our people. We demand action, not rhetoric. The government must act now.”
Former Nigeria army Chief of Defence Staff General TY Danjuma has persistently called for citizens to defend themselves as government was inadequately prepared to fight insurgency and banditry.
