Zamfara: Governor Matawalle Defends Permission To Acquire Guns By Residents

Zamfara State Governor, Bello Matawalle has defended his administration’s resolve to acquire guns to protect themselves against bandits’ invasions that has become more frequent.

Matawalle said the State Government relied on an extant legislation to direct residents to acquire weapons to defend themselves.

A statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Jamilu Magaji, and issued to newsmen on Tuesday said the governor made the remark while inaugurating some security committees in Gusau.

The statement explained that the governor’s directive is part of the administration’s efforts to tackle protracted security challenges in the state.

It added that the State Government is aware of the misgivings expressed in some quarters regarding the new measure.

It noted that the measure was meant “to encourage the communities suffering almost daily from the inhuman aggressions from the bandits to acquire firearms to defend their communities.

“Self-defence is a natural instinct and has always been part of human survival strategy.

 “As those entrusted with the safety of lives and property of the people, we will do everything possible to uphold this responsibility within the ambit of the law.

“We are also aware that the security forces are doing their best to combat this formidable challenge.

“Their efforts are, however, hampered by the lack of adequate modern warfare equipment and the dearth of personnel.

“Our decision to mobilise people to secure their communities is, therefore, for the people to complement the efforts of the conventional security forces in dealing with banditry and fishing out informants."

The governor further said that his administration has provided modern RUGA settlement for nomads and logistics support to security agencies, including vehicles and drones.

He said that in recent weeks, the state witnessed increased attacks in some parts of Gusau, Bukkuyum and Gummi Local Government Areas.

Matawalle said that government has provided 20 new Hilux Vans and 1,500 motorcycles to the committee on security to commence operation.