Series of insurgencies occurring in Nigeria have been alarming, with the rural environments no longer secure. Locals have complained of militia groups camping in their neighborhoods and plotting attacks. Kidnap cases, abductions, rape cases, assassinations being some of the atrocities conducted amid the raids.
Defense Minister Urges Nigerians to Protect Themselves
A lot has been said amid the surging militia attacks and ransom demands. Locals have Pledged with the government several times to secure their safety. Human watchdog and other rights groups have also called on Nigeria to restore peace in its country. Nevertheless, amid all the expectations, the Nigerian government happens to be overwhelmed.
Last week, the State’s Minister for Defense announced that the country was no longer in a position to defend its citizens. He called on the people to desist from being slaughtered like chickens and stand up to themselves. A former major general urged the civilians to stop being cowards, more so in the violence-prone regions.
“We should not be cowards. I do not know why people are running away from minor things like that. They should stand. Let these people know that even the villagers have the competence and capability to defend themselves,” said Bashir Salihi, retired major general.
Magashi’s Statement and Kidnap cases
Sources reported that Magashi’s statement had attracted storms of comments from displeased Nigerians. They felt it insubordinate of the government to abandon the civilians when they needed them most. Some took to social media to express their concerns. One of the critics stated that they are used to taking charge of their affairs in areas where the government has not lived up to its responsibilities.
Most Nigerians fend for themselves; they generate their electricity, pump water for themselves, arrange private education for their children, and so on. Since it happens that they are in charge of their survival, why not protect themselves? Of course, they would gladly defend themselves, more so if they had the power.
Adaobi Tricia, a novelist and a journalist states that no matter the level of determination one might possess, they cannot defend themselves with bare hands. The unavailability of weapons for locals in violence-prone regions is currently the major challenge. The locals are slaughtered like chickens because they do not have firearms.
Legalize Availability of Guns
In Nigeria, one cannot easily access ammunitions like guns, unlike in the US. To purchase a gun in the West African State, they will undergo a tiresome and torturous process. Depending on your weapon’s category, you must apply to your local government, state police, and the presidency before getting a license. Moreover, you have to renew the license every year.
Besides, for one to own a gun in Nigeria, they undergo a medical examination and psychiatric test then wait for six months for their application to be processed. In case one owned a gun and planned to travel out of town, they were forced to hand in their weapon. Unfortunately, President Buhari banned issuing gun licenses because of the thriving insurgencies, and now it is almost close to impossible to access weapons.
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