Governor Umar Namadi of Jigawa State has criticised recent comments made by former Chief of Army Staff, General Theophilus Danjuma, who urged Nigerians to defend themselves amid rising insecurity across the country.
Danjuma, speaking over the weekend, warned that if citizens failed to take up self-defence, bandits and terrorists could overrun communities.
“It is now very clear that the government alone cannot protect us. We must stand up and defend ourselves, our families, and our lands before these criminals overrun the entire country,” he stated.
However, appearing on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily on Monday, Governor Namadi cautioned that such a call could lead to widespread lawlessness.
“He (Danjuma) is a very senior security figure and deserves respect. But saying citizens should be allowed to defend themselves—I think that’s a recipe for anarchy,” Namadi said.
He emphasised the need for a thoughtful interpretation of Danjuma’s remarks: “His words need to be carefully analysed.”
Namadi highlighted ongoing government efforts to bolster security infrastructure, noting that progress was being made, particularly through community engagement and local initiatives.
He cited Jigawa State as an example of how strategic planning and collaboration with local leaders can curb violence.
“When we assumed office, we introduced various strategies and consulted experts. We also engaged traditional rulers and established standing committees to foster community dialogue. Now, people understand that fighting or killing each other is not the answer,” he said.
The governor insisted that the security situation had not deteriorated to the point where citizens should resort to self-defence.
“We have not reached the level where people need to defend themselves,” he added.
Namadi also expressed strong support for the creation of the State Police, calling it a realistic solution to Nigeria’s complex security challenges.
“The idea of state police is still very much alive. Many states have expressed interest. Discussions are ongoing at the level of the National Economic Council and I believe it will eventually be implemented,” he said.
Meanwhile, Danjuma, speaking at a public event in Takum, Taraba State, reiterated his long-held stance, urging citizens not to rely solely on government protection.
“The warning I gave some years ago is still valid today. Nigerians must rise and defend themselves,” he declared.
“We cannot continue to sit and watch while bandits, terrorists, and criminal gangs massacre our people unchecked,” he concluded.
