Governor Namadi Opposes Calls for Armed Self-Defense, Warns Against Anarchy

Jigawa State Governor Umar Namadi has rejected the notion that Nigerians should take up arms to defend themselves against bandits, stating that such an approach could trigger widespread disorder across the country.

Speaking during an interview on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily on Monday, the governor cautioned that urging citizens to resort to self-defense could lead to chaos and undermine efforts to address insecurity through peaceful means.

Governor Namadi's remarks came in response to recent comments by former Minister of Defence, Lt. Gen. Theophilus Danjuma (retd.), who advised residents of Benue and Plateau states to take charge of their own protection in the face of persistent attacks by armed groups. Danjuma had argued that relying on government intervention for security was no longer viable.

Addressing this stance, Governor Namadi acknowledged Danjuma’s expertise but disagreed with the idea of arming citizens.

“He is a very experienced security figure, but I believe encouraging self-defense will lead to anarchy,” Namadi said. “The government is actively working to strengthen our security architecture and response.”

Using the longstanding farmer-herder conflict in Jigawa as an example, Namadi emphasized the importance of nonviolent conflict resolution. He explained that rather than promoting self-defense, his administration prioritized inclusive dialogue with both parties.

“If we had told the victims to defend themselves, it would have escalated into a full-blown crisis,” the governor noted. “Instead, we brought farmers, herders, traditional leaders, and other stakeholders together for discussions.”

Namadi revealed that a dedicated committee was formed to mediate the dispute and foster understanding between the groups.

“Today, they are working together, interacting peacefully, and resuming normal lives,” he said. “So, I believe both the federal and state governments are doing their best. We have not reached the point where asking people to arm themselves is the solution.”

The governor concluded by stressing that long-term peace and stability depend on strategic engagement, trust-building, and institutional efforts, not vigilante justice.