Fire for Fire

Zamfara has recently been grappling with rising banditry attacks. Over 250 people have been killed this year from attacks in the state. In response to the insecurity, the state government is permitting its residents to arm themselves with guns.

Written by Tomisin Awosika

Jun 30, 2022

The governor of Zamfara State, Bello Matawalle. BELLO MATAWALLE / FACEBOOK .

On Sunday, 26 June 2022, the governor of Zamfara State, Bello Matawalle, announced that residents of the state can now apply to own gun licenses to protect themselves from gunmen and kidnappers. In a statement by Zamfara’s commissioner for information, Ibrahim Dosara, the move was in response to the increasing cases of kidnappings, killings and violent attacks within the state.

According to Dosara, ‘Government is ready to facilitate people, especially our farmers, to secure basic weapons for defending themselves. Government has already concluded arrangement to distribute 500 forms to each of the 19 emirates in the state for those willing to obtain guns to defend themselves.’

The government intends to issue its first 500 gun licenses in phases. First, residents are to apply through their local traditional rulers (emirs), where they will be screened for good character and credibility. Their application will then be move on to the state commissioner of police for a second review. The inspector-general of police will carry out the final phase of screening and reviews before gun licenses can be issued.

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About the Author

Tomisin Awosika

is a junior editor at The Republic.

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Fire for Fire