Senator Ned Nwoko, representing the Delta North Senatorial District, is advocating for a new bill that would allow Nigerians to bear arms for self-defense. During an interview with Channels TV, Nwoko argued that enabling citizens to carry weapons could significantly deter criminal activities, particularly the alarming rise in kidnappings across the nation.
When pressed on whether allowing citizens to carry arms would truly address Nigeria’s security issues, Nwoko asserted, “Oh, it will. It will.” His firm stance reflects a growing concern among many Nigerians regarding personal safety and security in their communities.
Nwoko’s advocacy is rooted in personal tragedy. He shared a heart-wrenching account of losing his Senior Legislative Aide (SLA) to a kidnapping incident last November. “The estate was attacked by kidnappers going from house to house. When they got to their door, my SLA told his wife to hide with the children. He opened the door to talk to them, and he was taken away. We never saw him alive again,” he recounted.
This painful experience has shaped Nwoko’s belief that an armed citizenry could act as a deterrent against criminals. “If he had a gun, or if others in the community had guns, would the kidnappers have had the audacity to go door to door? That wouldn’t happen,” he stated, highlighting the perceived need for citizens to be able to protect themselves.
While advocating for self-defense, Nwoko was careful to clarify that his proposed bill includes stringent regulations for gun ownership. He emphasized that the legislation would not lead to unrestricted access to firearms but would instead prioritize safety and responsibility.
“For you to have the license to have a gun, you must go through a training school, a shooting school, which is a training school. You must get confirmation from two doctors that you have a sound mind,” Nwoko explained, detailing the requirements that would accompany the proposal.
Additionally, he pointed out the necessity of thorough background checks. “You must get reports from the DSS and from the police. You must also be confirmed by your local traditional ruler that you are who you are,” he added, outlining the comprehensive vetting process that would be in place to ensure only qualified individuals could carry arms.
