‘Nigerians Have the Right to Bear Arms, Contrary to Government’s Views’ -Femi Falana
Human rights lawyer Femi Falana has asserted that Nigerians possess the right to bear firearms, contrary to the views of Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff, Taoreed Lagbaja, who expressed concerns about potential anarchy if citizens were armed.
In a recent interview with a TV station, Falana contested Lagbaja’s stance, stating that Nigerians indeed have the right to bear arms. He cited the penal code applicable in the North and the criminal code applicable in the South as legal frameworks that recognize the right to self-defense. According to Falana, the right to self-defense is also enshrined in the constitution, emphasizing that individuals have the right to protect themselves within the bounds of the law.
Regarding the legality of bearing arms, Falana clarified that while individuals have the right to apply for a license to bear arms, they must adhere to the constitutional requirements for self-defense. He stressed that the use of force should be proportional to the threat, highlighting the need to avoid excessive force in response to a perceived threat.
In a related development, the House of Representatives in 2022 announced its intention to consider the establishment of a center for coordinating and controlling small arms and light weapons in Nigeria. This decision came following a recommendation by the House Committee on National Security and Intelligence, aimed at enhancing efforts to combat insecurity in communities and the wider society.
Prior to this initiative, the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons cautioned against the illegal acquisition of weapons by Nigerians, emphasizing the importance of adhering to legal channels for obtaining firearms.
Source: Peoples Gazette
