Senator Francis Fadahunsi has called on the National Assembly to consider passing a law that permits responsible and qualified Nigerians to bear arms, citing the country’s escalating security challenges.
Fadahunsi, a former Deputy Comptroller-General of Customs, argued that the current security situation has stretched law-enforcement agencies beyond capacity, leaving citizens vulnerable to attacks by bandits, terrorists, and other criminal groups. According to him, allowing vetted Nigerians to own firearms for self-defense could help reduce the overwhelming pressure on security forces and deter violent crimes.
He stressed that such a policy would come with strict regulations, thorough background checks, psychological evaluations, and mandatory training to ensure that only disciplined, law-abiding citizens are eligible.
The senator maintained that the right to self-defense is fundamental, especially at a time when communities across the country continue to suffer attacks with limited protection. He urged lawmakers to begin deliberations on the proposal, adding that safeguarding lives and property should remain the top priority of government.