Nigerians ask to be allowed to carry arms to defend themselves, Army says no - Here is why?

Following the recent Christmas Eve attacks on communities in Bokkos and Mangu local government areas of Plateau State, there has been a debate on whether Nigerians should be allowed to carry arms to defend themselves against militias, terrorists, bandits, kidnappers, others.

Speaking on the calls across the country that Nigerians should be allowed to bear arms to defend themselves from attack, the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Taoreed Lagbaja, said it might lead to anarchy and that the Nigerian Army can defend the country as there was no need for self-defence.

The coordinated attacks in Plateau led to the death of over 200 persons and the destruction of hundreds of properties in over 50 villages.

Speaking on Channels Television’s end-of-the-year programme, "2023: Year of Transition,’’ late Sunday night, Lagbaja said;

“I do not support that (self-defence). I think that is a call to anarchy. The Nigerian Army can defend the country and as such, there is no need for self-defence.

“I have reeled out our plans for 2024 for Plateau State. The troops that we are deploying to Plateau, are on their way to Plateau now.

“This night or first thing tomorrow, they should be on the Plateau. We are sending more equipment to enhance efficiency of the troops.”

However, Nigerians continue to battle against these attacks as they debate the call for self-defence.

Below are some reactions;

@ikeuwanuakwa: Whose side are you on, the bandits or Nigerians?

@JakesOlasupo: It's called self-defense, not anarchy, Mr. Lagbaja.

@IFaskye: Areas where security is porous, residents should be allowed

@ideniyor: You either defend them, or let them have the ability to defend themselves.

@GreatMichael1: Army has failed, the citizens must protect themselves now before it's too late.

@Dan044Daniel: But those killers have guns and are actively using it against the indigenous locals?

@ArojojoyeAdeni2: Then do something. If you had done your part well, all these wouldn't have arisen. Get to work please!

@Ozo__Ude: Nigerian Army is always supportive of terrorism to remain relevant

Look right here the kind of sophisticated arms Fulani people are carrying. To make matter worse, you can see men of the Nigerian army right in the crowd. Do we have two countries?https://t.co/bVjlePk2R3

— That Naija Guy™ (@IamThatNaijaGuy) January 1, 2024