The Emir of Argungu, Muhammad Samaila Mera, has urged communities in his emirate to legally acquire weapons for self-defence amid persistent bandit attacks, while stressing caution against unlawful violence and reprisals.
The Emir of Argungu, Alhaji Muhammad Samaila Mera, has called on residents within his emirate to legally acquire weapons to defend themselves against persistent attacks by bandits and other criminal elements. He made the appeal during a meeting with district, village, and ward heads at his palace in Argungu, urging communities to remain vigilant and take proactive steps to protect their areas. He also suggested collective efforts to raise funds for the purchase of legally approved weapons for self-defence.
According to him, properly acquired weapons could serve as a deterrent if criminals are aware that communities are capable of defending themselves. “If you acquire such weapons legally, make sure the bandits are aware that your community possesses the means to defend itself. This alone can serve as a deterrent and discourage attacks,” he said. The monarch stressed that Islam does not promote helplessness in the face of violence, adding: “It is not right for a Muslim to remain passive while criminals kill people, kidnap innocent citizens, and rape our women. Be prepared to defend yourselves, your families, and your communities against any attack,” the Emir stated.
He, however, cautioned against misuse of arms, saying he was not encouraging ethnic violence or unlawful killings but lawful self-defence, noting that insecurity had overwhelmed security agencies. “When bandits attack, people start running, including village heads. This is happening because communities do not have adequate means of self-defence,” he said. He further warned against reprisal attacks, urging residents to cooperate with security agencies and avoid actions that could fuel cycles of violence.
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