The Nigerian Senate has made a significant push for the Federal Government to overhaul the country's firearm regulations, advocating for responsible citizens to be permitted to own guns for self-defense purposes.
Escalating Insecurity Prompts Urgent Action
This landmark recommendation emerged during a Senate session that addressed the worsening security situation across multiple states. The motion, titled "Urgent need to address escalating insecurity in Kwara, Kebbi and Niger States," was sponsored by Deputy Senate Leader Senator Lola Ashiru, who represents Kwara South under the APC banner.
Senators expressed deep concern about the increasing frequency of attacks targeting vulnerable institutions and communities. The legislative body specifically highlighted the November 18 assault on Christ Apostolic Church in Eruku, Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara state, where two worshippers lost their lives and thirty-eight others were forcibly taken hostage.
Educational Disruption and Community Impact
The persistent security challenges have had devastating consequences on Nigeria's educational system. Lawmakers revealed that the wave of mass school abductions and continuous raids has compelled the closure of numerous educational institutions, including all forty-seven unity schools nationwide. This development has disrupted academic activities for thousands of students across the country.
Senator Ashiru emphasized the critical nature of the situation during the parliamentary debate. "The rising wave of banditry, kidnappings, and violent crimes cannot be ignored," he stated. "It is urgent that we equip law-abiding citizens and strengthen our communities to safeguard lives and property."
Presidential Commendation and Legislative Reasoning
While pushing for legislative reforms, the Upper Chamber acknowledged President Bola Tinubu's recent security efforts. Senators commended the President for cancelling foreign trips to coordinate security responses that resulted in successful rescue operations. These operations secured the release of thirty-eight abductees in Kwara State and fifty-one students in Niger State.
The Senate's proposal for firearms law reform draws from international precedents. Senator Ashiru noted that "In over 175 countries, responsible citizens are permitted to legally own guns to defend themselves and their communities. Nigeria must consider similar measures to curb insecurity."
Beyond legal reforms, the Senate called on communities throughout the affected states and nationwide to maintain vigilance and unity while supporting security agencies. Legislators specifically urged citizens to resist internal collaborators who compromise national safety.
The motion represents one of the most direct legislative responses to Nigeria's security challenges, potentially marking a significant shift in the country's approach to civilian self-defense and community protection strategies.
