The Middle Belt Forum (MBF) has urged Nigerians to take lawful steps to defend themselves against rising insecurity, calling on the Federal Government to ease access to basic self-defence tools.
In a statement by its spokesman, Luka Binniyat, the group said citizens facing persistent attacks should be allowed regulated and affordable access to simple defensive weapons.
The forum also accused the Nasarawa State Director of the Department of State Services (DSS), Hassan Abdullahi, of alleged intimidation and harassment.
It cited the case of House of Representatives aspirant, Terry Tsala, who is contesting for the Akwanga/Nasarawa Eggon/Wamba Federal Constituency.
According to MBF, Tsala was allegedly arrested and repeatedly summoned by DSS operatives over claims that he attempted to procure five hunting rifles—an allegation he has denied.
The group maintained that he only sought to acquire a locally made hunting gun from a licensed manufacturer, a practice it said is common in insecure communities.
The forum argued that hunting guns are not illegal when properly obtained, referencing Section 33 of the Nigerian Constitution, which guarantees the right to life and supports reasonable self-defence measures.
It warned against what it described as undue pressure on citizens seeking lawful means to protect themselves.
Meanwhile, the Northern States Governors’ Forum (NSGF) renewed calls for state policing, stressing that Nigeria’s complex security challenges require localised, intelligence-driven solutions.
Chairman of the forum and Gombe State Governor, Inuwa Yahaya, said while security has improved in parts of the North, sustained and coordinated efforts are essential to tackle emerging threats and ensure lasting peace.