The Nigerian Senate has on Wednesday urged the Federal Government to reconsider the nation’s firearm regulations to permit responsible citizens to possess firearms, in light of increasing insecurity in Kwara, Kebbi, and Niger states.
This request came after a motion titled “Urgent Need to Address Escalating Insecurity in Kwara, Kebbi and Niger States,” introduced by Deputy Senate Leader, Senator Lola Ashiru (APC, Kwara South).
The motion pointed out recent attacks on schools, places of worship, and rural areas, including the November 18 assault on Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) in Eruku, Kwara State, where two worshippers were killed and 38 others were abducted.
Senators called for immediate federal measures to combat the rise in banditry, kidnappings, and violent crimes, warning that widespread school abductions and ongoing raids have led to the closure of schools, including all 47 unity schools nationwide, disrupting education for thousands of children.
The Senate praised President Bola Tinubu for canceling foreign trips to focus on security measures, which helped secure the release of 38 abductees in Kwara and 51 students in Niger State.
Lawmakers also urged communities in the affected states and throughout Nigeria to stay vigilant, united, and supportive of security forces while resisting internal collaborators who threaten national safety.
Senators stressed that Nigeria’s firearm laws should be updated to address current security issues, noting that over 175 countries allow responsible citizens to legally own firearms.
