Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umaru Radda, has called on the Federal Government to permit individuals to legally buy and possess weapons such as AK-47 rifles and RPGs for self-defense purposes.

During a media chat in Abuja on Friday, the governor argued that if bandits, who are causing widespread havoc in the country, have access to the weapons market, then individuals should also be granted the right to protect themselves.

He stated, “If a bandit can easily buy AK-47, RPG, and various other weapons from the market, why shouldn’t ordinary people be allowed to do the same in order to confront the challenges they face?”

The governor emphasized the difference between holding weapons illegally, as the bandits do, and seeking legal ownership for self-defense purposes. He stressed that the government should enable individuals to hold arms and confront the security challenges.

Regarding negotiations with bandits, Governor Radda expressed his strong reluctance, stating, “From my perspective, negotiation with bandits is a no-go area. However, if I find myself in a position of advantage where the bandits surrender their arms and request a dialogue, we may consider reintegrating them into society.”

He also shed light on the limitations faced by governors in addressing security issues, explaining that though they are called chief security officers of their states, they lack the authority to command the military, police, or civil defense, as they receive orders from higher authorities.

Describing their efforts to tackle the security challenges, he mentioned the establishment of an intelligence unit within the Katsina Community Watch Corps. This covert unit operates separately from the corps members and serves to monitor and control any potential abuses within the organization, as well as gather vital information.