NIGERIA: ‘Self-Defense Will Spark Chaos, Not Security’ – Gov Namadi

By Onoja Baba, Nigeria 

The Jigawa State Governor, Umar Namadi, has warned that encouraging citizens to take up arms in self-defense amid Nigeria’s worsening security situation, could plunge the country into full-scale anarchy.

Speaking during an appearance on Channels TV’s Sunrise Daily on Monday, Namadi said this in a bold rebuttal to the controversial call by former Chief of Army Staff, Gen. Theophilus Danjuma (rtd).

The governor noted that while he respects Danjuma’s military credentials, the suggestion that Nigerians must begin to defend themselves is a recipe for lawlessness.

“General Danjuma is a respected elder and former security chief, but if we tell citizens to take the law into their own hands, we are inviting chaos. That’s not how a country operates,” Namadi cautioned.

This reaction follows Danjuma’s recent statement in Takum, Taraba State, where he urged Nigerians to “rise and defend themselves” against bandits and violent criminals.

The retired general argued that the government can no longer be solely relied upon for protection.

However, Governor Namadi countered that narrative, citing Jigawa’s own approach to improving security through strategic planning, traditional institution engagement, and grassroots committees.

“We’ve proven that violence isn’t the only answer. When we came in, we strengthened community relations, involved traditional leaders, and used experts to design conflict resolution frameworks. Now, we’re seeing results,” he said.

Namadi insisted that while insecurity is a national challenge, Nigeria has not deteriorated to the point where civilian “vigilantism” should be normalized.

“We have not reached the level where people need to defend themselves. That’s not a path we want to go down. There are better solutions.”

He instead advocated for structural reforms within the security architecture, particularly the establishment of state police, an idea gaining traction among governors and currently under deliberation by the National Economic Council.

“The conversation around state policing is very much alive. It’s a constitutional solution that can complement federal efforts and address local peculiarities. That’s what we should be focusing on, not vigilante justice,” he noted.

The divide between Danjuma’s dire warning and Namadi’s institutional approach reflects a growing tension in Nigeria’s security discourse.