Senator Ned Nwoko, a member of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) representing Delta North senatorial district, recently sponsored a bill proposing increased firearm ownership among Nigerians. In an interview with ARISE NEWS, Senator Nwoko explained that the proposed bill, titled “Self-defense and Firearms Ownership Regulation,” aims to address the rising level of lawlessness in Nigeria and the inadequacy of police resources to protect citizens.
Senator Nwoko expressed his concern over the current state of insecurity in the country and noted that the police force lacks adequate funding and workforce to meet its constitutional mandate of protecting lives and properties. He believes that many Nigerians find themselves without sufficient protection and are desperate for a way to defend themselves.
The senator is a member of the senate committee on police matters and believes that Nigeria needs more policemen to secure the country. He also noted that the military has spent billions of Naira over the years buying weapons and ammunition to fight terrorism and other crimes but has not been able to solve the problem.
Senator Nwoko’s proposed bill would allow Nigerians to carry arms to defend themselves, but it also includes strict measures to ensure the safe use of firearms. The first condition that must be met is that every local government must have a gun shooting school, run by former military officers who own them. People who want to own a gun and a license must be trained on the use of arms at these shooting schools.
After completing the training, the next step is to obtain a letter of certification from the local king, Emir or Oba, confirming that the person is from that particular place. Then, the person must visit two doctors who will certify that they are mentally fit to bear arms. The next step is to obtain confirmation from the local government chairman and the DPO of that locality that the person does not have any criminal record.
Senator Nwoko believes that if more responsible Nigerians are allowed to carry guns, it will deter would-be attackers and improve security. He also thinks that an emergency number, similar to 911 in the US, would help ordinary Nigerians reach out to security forces or emergency services in the event of trouble.