The Emir of Argungu, Alhaji Muhammad Samaila Mera, has urged residents of communities within his emirate to explore lawful means of protecting themselves against growing threats from bandits and other criminal groups.
Speaking during a meeting with district, village and ward heads at his palace in Argungu, the traditional ruler stressed the need for vigilance and collective action in response to the worsening security situation in parts of Kebbi State.
Mera advised communities to consider pooling resources to acquire legally approved weapons for self-defence, arguing that such measures could help deter attacks.
“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 noted that residents should not remain defenceless while facing violent attacks, kidnappings and other criminal activities.
“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,” Mera stated.
According to him, many rural communities have become easy targets because they lack adequate means of protection.
“When bandits attack, people start running, including village heads. This is happening because communities do not have adequate means of self-defence,” he said.
The Emir, however, clarified that his remarks should not be interpreted as support for vigilantism or unlawful violence. He stressed that any form of self-defence must remain within the bounds of the law.
He also acknowledged the enormous pressure security agencies face in tackling the region’s security challenges, saying the scale of the crisis has become difficult for authorities to handle alone.
Addressing concerns about ethnic tensions, Mera warned residents against revenge attacks and extrajudicial killings. He said retaliatory violence often fuels an endless cycle of conflict and should be avoided.
“I will not support anyone carrying arms to attack other ethnic groups or engage in unlawful killings,” the traditional ruler warned.
The Emir further claimed that although many members of the Lakurawa group had reportedly left the area, armed bandits allegedly remained behind and continued to terrorise local communities. He added that the criminals still maintain connections with some of their former collaborators.
Emir called on residents across the Argungu Emirate to cooperate closely with security agencies, remain alert to security threats and conduct their affairs with the fear of God.
The meeting formed part of ongoing efforts by traditional authorities to address insecurity and encourage community participation in safeguarding lives and property across the emirate.
