By Yunusa Hamza
It was a thronged of commendation and felicitation that jam-packed all points-of-discussion (Majlissa and Teburin mai shayi) across the state and other selected media platforms, including prints and electronics, upon a statement credited to Governor Umar Namadi of Jigawa State recently, as he voiced strong disagreement with a controversial assertion encouraging Nigerians to resort to self-defence in the face of insecurity (Daily Trust Tuesday, 22 April 2025 et al.).
In aligning with the governor’s position, it is essential to underscore the dangers and potential consequences of such a call, particularly in a fragile democratic state.
Governor Namadi, known for his commitment to dialogue (as exemplified through the Citizens Engagement Program, locally known as “Gwamnati da Jama’a,” as this initiative enables residents and electorate from the 27 local government areas to voice their needs to their leaders.
While allowing the government to communicate its ongoing programs and projects to improve their lives, the institutional reform should lead to an open, inclusive, and transparent government that ensures effective public service delivery and sustainable democratic development with emphasis on socio-economic and security needs of the citizenry.
It was also on record that, this open discussion will strengthen rule of law and rightly alluded that calls for self-defence risk undermining the authority and capacity of legitimate apparatus/agencies.
While insecurity is a pressing issue that deserves urgent and effective action, promoting self-defence could encourage vigilantism, civil unrest, and a breakdown in public trust in governmental institutions, especially with recent counter development that could be seen as a distraction to the ideals of good governance at all levels.
Instead of promoting unofficial armed resistance, Governor Namadi has been seen championing increased investment in community policing, better intelligence gathering, and enhanced coordination among federal and state apparatus including locale.
These are practical and lawful measures that strengthen the state’s ability to protect citizens without resorting to dangerous alternatives.
The rise of self-defence groups and the proliferation of weapons can militarize communities, increasing the risk of conflict and instability.
This can also lead to a breakdown of social order and a further erosion of the state’s monopoly on force.
This will encourage the proliferation of small arms, while deteriorating the fragile state called Nija.
The leaders should apply a balanced approach that prioritizes state protection while also respecting individual rights is crucial for a functioning democracy. Kudos to HE Umar Namadi as the only governor who voiced out the bitter truth.
Supporting Governor Namadi’s position also means reinforcing our democratic values and rejecting any rhetoric that could incite fear, disunity, or anarchy.
While General Danjuma’s frustrations are understandable given Nigeria’s security challenges, leadership demands responsibility and caution. Governor Namadi’s measured response reflects the kind of leadership Nigeria needs at a time like this—firm, lawful, legitimate, and focused on long-term peace and stability.
Hamza (Tafidan Farin Dutse) writes from Farin Dutse Gwaram Local Government, Jigawa State.
