The former Labour Party governorship candidate, Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour (GRV), has urged the Federal Government to consider licensing firearms for citizens’ self-defence as nationwide insecurity continues to escalate. His comments follow fresh cases of kidnappings in Kwara and Ogun States, which have intensified fears over public safety.
GRV, who recently moved to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), made the call during an interview on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief. He said the government’s persistent failure to protect lives is forcing Nigerians to think seriously about self-protection.
According to him, insecurity is no longer limited to one region.
“This is not just about the North. We have seen abductions in Kwara and Ogun States over the weekend. When institutions fail and trust in government collapses, people lose hope,” he said.
He argued that if the government cannot effectively secure the population, it should begin to consider controlled firearm licensing for citizens.
“If the government cannot sit up, then they should start considering licensing firearms,” he said, warning that temporary government actions will not stop people from seeking lasting solutions.
GRV added that asking citizens to remain defenceless in the face of violent attacks is “wickedness,” especially when security agencies appear overwhelmed.
‘Government Has Not Valued Human Life Enough’ — GRV
Rhodes-Vivour criticised the current administration for prioritising politics over public welfare.
“The government is obsessed with electioneering instead of improving the lives of Nigerians,” he said.
He rejected ongoing negotiations with terrorists, calling the approach unsustainable and harmful to national security.
GRV also faulted President Bola Tinubu’s handling of insecurity, stating that the government has not demonstrated sufficient value for human life, despite repeated attacks nationwide.
Rising Calls for Self-Defence
As insecurity worsens, many Nigerians and community leaders are pushing for discussions around self-defence and community protection.
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- Retired General T.Y. Danjuma previously encouraged Nigerians to defend themselves where necessary.
- DSS Director-General Oluwatosin Ajayi supported the idea of licensed vigilantes with regulated access to firearms.
- The Arewa Grassroots Leaders Assembly has called for legalising AK-47 rifles for rural self-defence.
- Jigawa Governor Umar Namadi countered that such measures could trigger anarchy and widespread violence.
Current Firearm Laws in Nigeria
Nigeria’s laws strictly prohibit civilian possession of automatic weapons, including AK-47 rifles.
Under the 1959 Firearms Act, citizens may apply for licences for certain non-assault firearms, such as pump-action shotguns, but these remain heavily regulated.
As insecurity continues to spread, debates on licensed firearms, community self-defence, and government responsibility remain at the centre of national conversation.
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