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The Governor of Jigawa State, Umar Namadi, has faulted recent remarks by former Chief of Army Staff, General Theophilus Danjuma, who urged Nigerians to defend themselves in the face of growing insecurity.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily on Monday, Namadi warned that such a statement could lead to lawlessness.
“He (Danjuma) is a very senior security person, and should be respected. But if he says that citizens should be allowed to defend themselves, I think you are causing anarchy.
“His words need to be analysed carefully,” Namadi said.
Namadi stressed that the government is making ongoing efforts to improve the country’s security architecture.
He pointed to his state as an example of how community engagement and strategic planning can help reduce violence.
He said, “When we assumed office, we employed a lot of strategies and brought in experts. We also engaged traditional rulers and established standing committees to communicate with the people. Now, they understand that fighting or killing each other is not the solution.
“We have not reached the level where people need to defend themselves.”
The governor also backed the establishment of the State Police, describing it as a viable solution to Nigeria’s security problems.
“The idea of State Police is still very much alive. Many states have indicated interest. At the level of the National Economic Council, discussions are ongoing, and I believe it will eventually be implemented,” he stated.
Danjuma, speaking at a public event in Takum, Taraba State, on Saturday, urged Nigerians to defend themselves against bandits and criminals, warning that relying solely on the government for protection is no longer realistic.
“The warning I gave some years ago is still as valid today as it was then. Nigerians must rise and defend themselves,” Danjuma said, referring to his earlier warnings.
“We cannot continue to sit and watch while bandits, terrorists, and criminal gangs massacre our people unchecked,” he said.
