Insecurity: Acquire weapons for self-defence, emir tells subjects

The Emir of Argungu, Muhammad Samaila Mera, has urged residents of communities within his emirate to legally acquire weapons for self-defence in response to persistent attacks by bandits and other criminal elements.

The monarch made the call during a meeting with district heads, village heads and ward leaders at his palace in Argungu, stressing the need for communities to take proactive steps to protect themselves while working with security agencies.

According to him, communities should consider pooling resources to purchase legally approved firearms and other security equipment to strengthen local defence against criminal attacks.

“If you acquire such weapons legally, make sure the bandits are aware that your community possesses the means to defend itself. This alone can serve as a deterrent and discourage attacks,” he said.

The emir noted that Islam does not encourage people to remain helpless in the face of violence, kidnapping and other criminal activities.

“It is not right for a Muslim to remain passive while criminals kill people, kidnap innocent citizens and rape our women. Be prepared to defend yourselves, your families and your communities against any attack,” he stated.

The traditional ruler lamented that many rural communities have become vulnerable because they lack the capacity to resist attacks whenever bandits strike.

He observed that residents often flee alongside community leaders during invasions because they have no effective means of self-defence.

The emir, however, clarified that he was not advocating vigilantism or encouraging anyone to take the law into their own hands. Rather, he said lawful self-defence had become necessary as security agencies continue to grapple with widespread insecurity.

He also warned against revenge attacks, ethnic violence and extrajudicial killings, stressing that innocent people should never be targeted in retaliation for crimes committed by others.

According to him, cycles of revenge only deepen insecurity and create further conflict within affected communities.

The monarch further alleged that although many members of the Lakurawa group had left the area, some armed bandits remained behind and continue to pose security threats to residents.

He called on communities across the emirate to remain vigilant, cooperate with security agencies and uphold peace while taking lawful measures to protect lives and property.

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