A former minister, Solomon Dalung, has called for legal reforms that would grant Nigerian citizens the constitutional right to bear arms for self-defense. The appeal was made during a public lecture in which Dalung argued that the existing security challenges in the country justify empowering law-abiding citizens to protect themselves.
He emphasized that in areas where the state security apparatus is weak or stretched thin, individuals should have legal means to defend their lives and property. According to him, introducing regulated arms ownership would not be about promoting vigilantism, but creating legal safeguards so that citizens are not entirely defenseless.
Dalung also urged that such a policy be framed within strict regulation, vetting, training, and accountability measures to prevent misuse. He called on lawmakers, security agencies, and civil society stakeholders to begin dialogue on constitutional amendments and legislation to formalize the right.
The ex-minister’s comments have sparked debate among security experts, human rights groups, and legislators over balancing public safety with individual rights.
