- According to him, residents should not remain complacent in the face of growing security threats but must remain alert
- The Emir stressed that self-protection should be pursued within the confines of the law
- He warned that revenge killings and ethnic-based violence only deepen insecurity
The Emir of Argungu, Muhammad Samaila Mera, has advised communities within his domain to explore lawful means of protecting themselves from recurring attacks by bandits and other criminal groups.
Eko Hot Blog gathered that the monarch gave the advice during a meeting with district, village and ward heads at his palace in Argungu, where security challenges facing communities across the emirate formed a major part of discussions.
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According to him, residents should not remain complacent in the face of growing security threats but must remain alert and work together to strengthen community safety.
He suggested that communities could collectively mobilise resources to obtain legally approved weapons for self-defence, noting that the knowledge that a community can defend itself may discourage criminals from launching attacks.
The Emir stressed that self-protection should be pursued within the confines of the law and not be mistaken for vigilantism or unlawful armed activities.
He lamented the vulnerability of many rural communities, saying the absence of adequate defensive capacity often leaves residents with little option but to flee whenever armed groups invade their settlements.
Mera argued that citizens have a responsibility to protect their lives, families and property, especially at a time when security agencies are facing increasing pressure from multiple security threats across the country.
While advocating stronger community preparedness, the monarch cautioned residents against taking the law into their own hands or targeting innocent people in retaliation for attacks.
He warned that revenge killings and ethnic-based violence only deepen insecurity and could trigger fresh cycles of conflict within affected communities.
According to him, many violent incidents stem from reprisals, making it important for residents to exercise restraint and allow security agencies to handle criminal matters through lawful channels.
The Emir also expressed concern that although members of the Lakurawa group had reportedly left some areas, armed criminals believed to have links with them were still operating and posing threats to local communities.
He therefore urged residents across the Argungu Emirate to remain vigilant, cooperate with security agencies and uphold peaceful coexistence while supporting efforts aimed at restoring lasting security in the region.
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