Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), has provided reasoning for not permitting Nigerians to openly carry arms in response to the attacks in Plateau State.
In a recent interview on Channels Television, Lagbaja emphasized that advocating for self-defense through open carrying of arms could lead to “anarchy.”
He firmly expressed his disapproval of such a proposition, highlighting the potential risks associated with it.
“I do not support that. I think that is a call for anarchy.”
In his view, the Nigerian Army is capable of safeguarding the nation, rendering self-defense unnecessary.
Furthermore, he mentioned that additional troops are being dispatched to the Plateau region as a proactive measure to enhance security.
Lagbaja said, “I have reeled out our plans for 2024 for Plateau State. The troops that we are deploying to Plateau, are on their way to Plateau now.
“This night or first light tomorrow, they should be on the Plateau. We are sending more equipment to enhance the efficiency of the troops.”
Reports indicate that more than 50 villages were impacted by the attacks, prompting President Bola Tinubu to advocate for a comprehensive investigation.
The assaults have garnered international condemnation, with the United Nations urging the Federal Government to conduct a thorough inquiry into the incidents.
“I call on the Nigerian authorities to investigate this incident promptly, thoroughly, and independently, consistent with international human rights law, and to hold those responsible to account in fair trials,” UN rights chief Volker Turk said in a statement.
“The cycle of impunity fuelling recurrent violence must be urgently broken. The government should also take meaningful steps to address the underlying root causes and to ensure non-recurrence of this devastating violence.”