Emir of Argungu Urges Communities to Legally Arm Themselves Against Bandit Attacks

The Emir of Argungu, Alhaji Muhammad Samaila Mera, has called on residents of his emirate to take proactive steps to protect their communities by legally acquiring weapons for self-defence amid persistent attacks by bandits and other criminal groups.

The monarch made the appeal during a meeting with district heads, village heads, and ward leaders at his palace in Argungu, Kebbi State, where he expressed concern over the growing insecurity affecting communities across the region.

According to the Emir, communities should consider pooling resources together to purchase government-approved weapons that can be used for lawful self-defence. He noted that the mere knowledge that a community possesses the capacity to defend itself could discourage criminals from launching attacks.

“If such weapons are acquired legally, bandits should be made aware that the community is capable of defending itself. That alone can serve as a deterrent and reduce the likelihood of attacks,” he said.

The traditional ruler stressed that Islam does not encourage helplessness in the face of violence and criminality. He urged residents to be prepared to protect their lives, families, and property when faced with threats from armed groups.

“It is not right for people to remain passive while criminals kill innocent citizens, abduct residents, and commit other atrocities. Communities must be prepared to defend themselves against attacks,” the Emir stated.

He lamented that many villages have become easy targets because they lack effective means of self-defence, adding that panic often sets in whenever bandits strike.

The Emir, however, clarified that he was not encouraging vigilantism, lawlessness, or acts of terrorism. Instead, he emphasized the importance of lawful self-defence and cooperation with security agencies, especially as security forces continue to face enormous challenges in tackling widespread insecurity.

He also warned residents against ethnic violence, revenge attacks, and extrajudicial killings, stressing that retaliatory actions against innocent people only deepen cycles of conflict and bloodshed.

“I will not support anyone who carries arms to attack another ethnic group or engage in unlawful killings,” he cautioned. “Every unjust killing creates another cycle of revenge.”

The monarch further alleged that although many members of the Lakurawa group had reportedly left the area, armed bandits believed to have links with former collaborators remain active and continue to terrorize local communities.

He concluded by urging residents throughout the Argungu Emirate to remain vigilant, work closely with security agencies, and uphold moral values and the fear of God in all their activities as efforts continue to address the security challenges facing the region.