Investigative journalist, Babajide Otitoju, has reacted to the reports that Governor Bello Matawalle of Zamfara State told his people to acquire weapons to protect themselves. During his interview on TVC News, Babajide explained why the Governor’s directive is “very irresponsible,” while adding that our leaders should reason thoroughly before talking.
Reacting to the governor’s directive, Babajide said, “We need to protect ourselves better.” The current administration needs to do better at protecting our people, and I have often said that no matter what the government does, people will talk about the failure in the area of security. I read that the governor of Zamfara state directed his people to buy weapons to protect themselves. This is quite irresponsible.
He continued, “You cannot tell people to buy weapons to protect themselves, as some of these weapons will eventually be used for armed robbery.” The crime rate will definitely increase when everyone moves around with an assault weapon. Our politicians need to reason thoroughly before making statements. The crime rate will increase, and there will be a need to mop-up those weapons. It is difficult to mop-up weapons already in circulation. You can not keep telling people to defend themselves because you have failed in your duty to protect them. Even vigilantes have been killed by bandits because the terrorists use superior weapons. How do you confront people moving around with some of the latest weapons? You are telling our people to confront people who move around with rocket-propelled grenades and GPMG. It is your responsibility to protect them.