By CHIJIOKE CHARLES
Former Deputy Governor of Sokoto State, Mukhtar Shagari, has called on the Federal Government to consider granting gun licences to responsible Nigerians for self-defence in response to the worsening security situation across the country.
Speaking during an appearance on Arise TV’s Daybreak programme on Thursday, Shagari argued that citizens should be legally empowered to protect themselves against criminal elements and terrorist attacks, especially in areas where security agencies are overstretched.
Afrilensnews reports that the former deputy governor made the declaration while discussing the persistent wave of insecurity, kidnappings and terrorist attacks affecting several parts of Nigeria.
According to him, Nigerians are increasingly becoming vulnerable targets of armed criminals, making it necessary for the government to explore additional measures that would enable law-abiding citizens to defend their lives and property.
Shagari also renewed his support for the establishment of state police, describing itas a critical step toward improving security at the grassroots level.
He stressed that state police would be more familiar with local terrain, intelligence networks and community dynamics, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of crime prevention and response efforts.
The former deputy governor, however, noted that the success of state policing would depend largely on adequate funding.
“The federal government must find a way to augment the security vote to ensure that state police is well funded,” he said.
His remarks come in the wake of the reported killing of a vice principal and several other persons in Kogi State by suspected terrorists on Wednesday, an incident that has renewed concerns over the country’s security architecture and the capacity of security agencies to protect citizens.
The call for gun licences and state police is likely to reignite a long-standing national debate over decentralised policing and civilian firearm ownership.
While proponents argue that such measures could strengthen local security and deter criminal attacks, critics warn that wider access to firearms could lead to abuse, proliferation of weapons and escalating violence if not properly regulated.
Security experts have repeatedly urged the government to adopt a multi-pronged approach that combines intelligence gathering, community policing, improved funding of security agencies and socio-economic interventions to address the root causes of insecurity.
Shagari’s comments add to growing calls from political leaders, security stakeholders and community groups for urgent reforms aimed at tackling the country’s persistent security challenges. :::
