Former Minister of Water Resources, Mukhtar Shagari, has publicly proposed that the Nigerian government should grant licenses for citizens to own firearms for home protection. Speaking during an appearance on ARISE News, Shagari argued that the escalating insecurity across the nation necessitates a shift in policy, suggesting that law-abiding individuals should be empowered to defend themselves against criminals.
Shagari contended that the current security framework is insufficient to protect every citizen, leaving many vulnerable to attacks in their own homes. He emphasized that under a regulated licensing system, responsible Nigerians could serve as a deterrent to armed intruders.
However, the proposal has sparked a wider conversation regarding the risks of widespread weapon proliferation. Critics often point to the potential for increased domestic violence, accidental shootings, and the possibility of firearms being seized or misappropriated by criminal elements. While Shagari’s suggestion reflects the growing frustration with national security challenges, it remains a controversial topic that pits the right to personal self-defense against broader concerns about public safety and the rule of law.
