Self-Defense Will Breed Anarchy – Governor Namadi Warns Danjuma Against Citizens Taking Up Arms!

Jigawa State Governor, Umar Namadi, has rejected calls for citizens to take up arms in self-defense against bandits, warning that such action could lead to national chaos.

He emphasized that Nigeria has not yet reached the point where such drastic measures are necessary, describing the suggestion as a dangerous invitation to anarchy.

Namadi was responding to a recent statement by retired Defence Minister, Lt. Gen. Theophilus Danjuma, who urged victims of bandit and terrorist attacks in Benue and Plateau states to defend themselves from armed attackers.

Danjuma had argued that relying on government protection was no longer feasible. However, Governor Namadi disagreed, warning that encouraging self-defense would only escalate the violence.

Speaking to journalists, Namadi said there are more constructive approaches to addressing insecurity that do not involve arming the populace. He expressed confidence in the federal government’s ongoing efforts to restore security nationwide.

“General Danjuma is an experienced security figure, but allowing citizens to arm themselves would only lead to chaos,” Namadi stated. “The government is actively working on improving security through a well-structured approach.”

He pointed to the resolution of the farmer-herder conflict in Jigawa State as an example of peaceful conflict management. According to him, rather than encourage violence, his administration opted for inclusive dialogue with farmers, herders, and traditional leaders.

“Had we told our people to defend themselves, the crisis between farmers and herders would have intensified,” he noted. “Instead, we implemented strategies involving dialogue and engagement with key stakeholders on both sides.”

Namadi added that his government set up a reconciliation committee to mediate and resolve disputes, which helped to de-escalate tensions and restore peace.