Author: Musa Ibrahim
Date: April 26, 2025
As Nigeria continues to grapple with unrelenting insecurity, former Defence Minister Gen. TY Danjuma (rtd) has once again stirred national discourse by urging citizens to take up self-defence. But while his statement resonates with many frustrated Nigerians, it also raises a dangerous question: Could this call lead to more bloodshed than safety?
During a staff get-together in Taraba State, Gen. Theophilus Yakubu Danjuma, a former Minister of Defence and respected elder statesman, reiterated his long-standing message to Nigerians — defend yourselves. “The warning I gave years ago remains valid. Nigerians must rise and defend themselves,” he said, referencing the unchecked terror wreaked by bandits and insurgents across the country.
Danjuma, who made a similar call in 2018, has once again ignited national conversations about citizens’ right to self-protection in a nation where security seems to be slipping through the fingers of law enforcement. Back then, he shocked the public by alleging collusion between the military and the killers — a statement that drew both praise and criticism. His renewed call adds fresh fuel to an already burning issue.
But is this really the right solution?
While it’s understandable that Nigerians are fed up with the endless carnage — especially in states like Plateau, Benue, Zamfara, Taraba, Niger, and Kaduna — encouraging ordinary citizens to bear arms might open a floodgate of anarchy. If self-defence becomes the norm, how do we draw the line between protection and vigilantism?
Think about it: untrained civilians facing off against hardened criminals armed with military-grade weapons like AK-47s and RPGs. What chance do farmers with dane guns truly stand? We’ve seen how local vigilantes are often overpowered, outgunned, and left defenceless against well-coordinated attackers. If trained security forces struggle, how can civilians hope to fare better?
Danjuma’s comments reflect the deep sense of abandonment felt across the country. The failure of the state to protect its people has left many believing self-defence is their only option. However, experts argue that this mindset could plunge Nigeria into deeper chaos. The threat of ethnic militias, revenge attacks, and accidental civilian confrontations becomes far too real when everyone is armed.
The real problem lies in our broken security infrastructure. The Nigerian police force remains overstretched and underfunded. With one officer often responsible for patrolling several communities, effective response to emergencies is nearly impossible. This makes the call for state police more pressing than ever.
Decentralizing the force would allow better intelligence gathering, faster responses, and more accountability.
Also, in the 21st century, we must rely on technology. From drones and CCTV to advanced surveillance and communication systems, our fight against insecurity needs a digital upgrade. It’s baffling that in 2025, we’re still relying on outdated methods to tackle modern terrorism.
Beyond that, we must confront the root causes of violence — poverty, joblessness, and youth disenfranchisement. Many young people turn to crime not because they want to, but because they feel it’s the only way to survive. Until we provide viable alternatives, criminality will remain attractive.
Swift and firm justice should also replace lenient responses. Bandits captured should not be rewarded with amnesty but should face the full wrath of the law. Amnesty programmes have largely failed and, in many cases, emboldened more criminals.
Moreover, our intelligence network needs an overhaul. Communities often know who the criminals are, yet security agencies fail to act preemptively. A more responsive and coordinated intelligence system could save lives before bullets start flying.
While some argue that self-defence is a fundamental right, arming civilians in a highly volatile environment can easily lead Nigeria down a dangerous path — one resembling the lawlessness of Somalia or Libya.
Rather than romanticizing the idea of self-defence, our leaders must take responsibility. Fix the systemic flaws. Fund and reform the security sector. Push for state police. Embrace modern surveillance. Provide jobs and education. These are the sustainable paths to lasting peace.
The call for self-defence underscores a national emergency — one born out of frustration and fear. But Nigeria must tread carefully. Turning every citizen into a soldier may sound bold, but in reality, it could spark a wildfire we can’t control.
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