Self-defence only option against bandits – Northern Groups

Northern Groups Call for Self-Defence as Insecurity Spirals Out of Control

Concerns over the escalating insecurity in Northern Nigeria have reached a boiling point, with prominent groups urging citizens to take up self-defence against bandits and other forms of criminality. The Northern Youth Council of Nigeria and the Arewa Defence League, a pro-democracy group, have expressed deep concern over the government’s failure to protect lives and property.

“We are at a crossroads,” said Murtala Abubakar, President of the Arewa Defence League. “If the government fails to protect its citizens, it is only logical that they take matters into their own hands. We are not advocating for violence, but for the right to defend ourselves in the face of government failure.”

Abubakar cited the social contract theory, which states that citizens surrender their rights to an authority in exchange for protection. However, he argues that when the government fails to provide this protection, citizens have a right to take up arms for self-defence.

Isah Abubakar, National President of the Northern Youth Council of Nigeria, echoed similar sentiments. “It is disheartening to see mass killings skyrocket in recent times in Northern Nigeria,” he said. “The government has failed to provide security, and it is up to citizens to take up arms and defend themselves.”

The two groups are not alone in their call for self-defence. Ishaq Usman Kasai, Chairman of the Birnin-Gwari-Niger Interboundary Community Union for Peace and Development, has also called for legislation allowing Nigerians to bear arms for self-defence against bandits.

Kasai argued that reconciliation efforts and negotiations with bandits have failed, leaving self-defence as the only viable option. He pointed out that numerous failed negotiations between communities and bandits in various states have shown that negotiations are not effective.

While some may argue that arming citizens is a dangerous proposition, Kasai believes that immediate action is necessary due to the government’s inability to protect citizens. “We are not advocating for chaos, but for self-defence,” he said. “Self-defence is now the most effective means of protection for communities.”

As the situation continues to deteriorate, many Nigerians are left with no choice but to take matters into their own hands. With the government failing to provide adequate protection, it remains to be seen whether self-defence will become a viable option for many communities.