Insecurity: Nigerians have right to defend themselves, bear arms legally – Presidency

By Tolulope Oke

Senior Special Advicer to President Bola Tinubu on Policy Communication, Daniel Bwala, has said Nigerians have the right to defend themselves and may lawfully apply for licences to bear arms for personal and community protection.

Bwala made the remark during an interview on ARISE News’ What’s Trending With Ojy Okpe, while addressing concerns over the rising insecurity in the country, including recent abductions and attacks in various states.

“The Constitution grants every Nigerian citizen the right to private defence. You have the right to defend yourself,” Bwala said.

He added that communities also have a role to play in protecting themselves, stressing that they can organise as lawful vanguards by applying to the government for licences to bear arms permitted under the law.

Bwala’s comments come amid public concern over escalating insecurity, including the recent schoolchildren abductions and attacks on teachers in Oyo State, prompting calls for stronger government action.

He assured Nigerians that the federal government remains committed to restoring safety and public confidence across affected areas.

The presidential aide also addressed criticisms of the administration’s economic reforms and external borrowing, insisting that engagements with institutions such as the World Bank are aimed at stabilising the economy and promoting sustainable growth.

Bwala dismissed online campaigns urging the World Bank to halt lending to Nigeria, saying the Tinubu administration’s reforms were designed to reposition the economy for long-term recovery.

During the interview, he also criticised former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, accusing him of being intolerant of opposing views and describing his political style as dictatorial.

The discussion further touched on controversies surrounding APC primaries and allegations of irregularities in some internal party elections.