By Joy Yesufu
The Emir of Argungu, Muhammad Samaila-Mera, has called on residents of communities within his emirate to strengthen local vigilance and consider the lawful acquisition of firearms for self-defence against bandits and other criminal elements.
The monarch made the appeal during a meeting with district heads, village heads and ward heads at his palace in Argungu, Kebbi State, where he expressed concern over the persistent security challenges confronting communities in the area.
According to the Emir, communities should explore collective efforts to raise funds for the purchase of legally approved weapons as part of measures to protect lives and property.
“If such weapons are acquired legally, and criminals are aware that a community has the capacity to defend itself, it could serve as a deterrent against attacks,” he said.
Samaila-Mera lamented the increasing vulnerability of rural communities to bandit attacks, kidnappings and other violent crimes, noting that many residents often have little capacity to resist armed assailants.
“It is not right for people to remain helpless while criminals kill, kidnap and terrorise innocent citizens.
Communities must be prepared to lawfully defend themselves, their families and their property,” he stated.
The Emir, however, stressed that his call should not be interpreted as an endorsement of vigilantism, terrorism or unlawful violence.
He emphasised that any form of self-defence must be carried out within the confines of the law and in collaboration with recognised security agencies.
The traditional ruler also warned against ethnic profiling, reprisal attacks and extrajudicial killings, saying such actions only fuel further cycles of violence.
According to him, many attacks witnessed in affected communities are often linked to retaliatory actions, making it imperative for residents to avoid targeting innocent individuals or groups.
The monarch further alleged that although many members of the Lakurawa group had reportedly left the area, armed criminal elements believed to have maintained links with former collaborators continue to operate within some communities.
He therefore urged residents across the Argungu Emirate to remain vigilant, cooperate with security agencies and uphold the rule of law in addressing security challenges.
The call comes amid growing concerns over banditry, kidnapping in parts of northwestern Nigeria, where communities have repeatedly appealed for stronger security presence and protection.
