Former defence minister, General Theophilus Danjuma, has challenged Nigerians to arm themselves, defend and fight for their lives, insisting that the government alone cannot guarantee security.
Danjuma`s remarks which he made in Tukum, Taraba State, was in response to renewed massacre of hapless Nigerians in parts of the country, especially in Benue and Plateau where over 3,000 persons have been killed and properties worth millions, destroyed, by marauding Fulani gunmen.
The former defence minister who is reported to be one of the key players of the 1967 counter coups that killed Nigeria’s first military Head of state, Gen. Aguiyi Ironsi said, “I know we have a lot of problems, including security, as recently as two or three days ago,” he said.
“We have experienced kidnapping, the threat of kidnapping will continue until we, every one of us, rise up and defend ourselves.
“It is quite clear the government alone cannot do it. I have warned a very long time ago, in a speech in Wukari, that our people must be prepared to defend themselves.
“That warning is as valid today as it was when I made it.”
Meanwhile, the Minister of Defence, Muhammad Badaru Abubakar, has visited communities in Bassa Local Government Area of Plateau State affected by recent attacks to commiserate with victims and reassure them of the federal government’s resolve to restore peace and prevent future violence.
In a statement issued by the Ministry of Defence, the Minister extended condolences to families who lost loved ones and expressed sympathy to those injured in the attacks.
“It is imperative that we put an end to the cycle of violence that has plagued this region,” Badaru said during the visit.
He was accompanied by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Ambassador Gabriel Tanimu Aduda, and was received by Major General Folusho Oyinlola, General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division of the Nigerian Army and Commander of Operation Safe Haven.
The Defence Minister emphasized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s deep concern over the security situation in Plateau State.
“Mr. President has directed that the perpetrators of these heinous acts be apprehended and brought to justice. The GOC and other security agencies have assured me that no effort will be spared,” he stated.
He stressed the importance of collaborative efforts with the Plateau State Government to develop and implement sustainable measures to prevent future attacks.
“We are working closely with the state government to implement structures that will help mitigate such incidents,” he added
Badaru also appealed to community leaders to support security efforts through active intelligence sharing, which he described as critical in tracking down the perpetrators.
He urged the affected communities to remain calm and patient during this difficult time, assuring them that efforts to resolve the crisis are ongoing.
