Argungu Emir Advocates Legal Community Self-Defence Measures Against Banditry

By Admin

The Emir of Argungu, Muhammad Samaila-Mera, has urged 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 traditional ruler made the call during a meeting with district heads, village heads and ward heads at his palace in Argungu, where he expressed concern over the persistent security challenges facing 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 aimed at protecting 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 growing vulnerability of rural communities to bandit attacks, kidnappings and other violent crimes, noting that many residents often lack the 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 remarks should not be interpreted as support for vigilantism, terrorism or unlawful violence.
He emphasized that any form of self-defence must be carried out within the provisions of the law and in collaboration with recognised security agencies.
The monarch also cautioned against ethnic profiling, reprisal attacks and extrajudicial killings, warning that such actions only deepen cycles of violence.
According to him, many attacks recorded in affected communities are often linked to retaliatory actions, making it important for residents to avoid targeting innocent individuals or groups.
He further alleged that although many members of the Lakurawa group had reportedly left the area, armed criminal elements believed to maintain links with former collaborators continue to operate within some communities.
The Emir therefore called on residents across the Argungu Emirate to remain vigilant, cooperate with security agencies and uphold the rule of law in addressing security challenges.
The appeal comes amid growing concerns over banditry and kidnapping across parts of northwestern Nigeria, where communities have repeatedly called for stronger security presence and protection.