The bill, currently awaiting its first reading in the Senate, outlines stringent criteria for Nigerians seeking to bear arms for self-defense.
During an appearance on Arise TV’s Morning Show, Nwoko highlighted key conditions for firearm ownership, including references from two medical doctors certifying mental fitness.
Additionally, the bill requires endorsement from the local government chairman for community validation, certification from a traditional leader, and confirmation by the Divisional Police Officer to verify the individual’s criminal record.
Explaining the rationale behind the bill, Nwoko explained the dire need for enhanced personal protection, stating, “We have come to a point in this country where we must make an honest admission to ourselves, which is that the security agents cannot really protect lives and properties as enshrined in the constitution.”
Proposing a structured approach, Nwoko detailed that each local government area must establish a gun shooting school, run by former military officers, where individuals can undergo training on firearm usage.
After completing the training, aspiring gun owners must obtain certifications from community leaders, medical professionals, and law enforcement authorities.
Nwoko justified the urgency of the bill by citing the prevalent lawlessness and the inadequacies of security forces in safeguarding citizens.
He lamented the lack of support for the common man, stating, “The police as a force is ill-equipped, ill-funded, and not capable of discharging those onerous duties.”
This move echoes similar sentiments expressed by other Nigerian leaders in the past, such as the House of Representatives Majority Leader, Alhassan Ado-Doguwa, and former Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom.
These leaders have advocated for allowing responsible Nigerians to bear arms as a means of self-defense against terrorists and criminals.
Speaking of the military, Nwoko said billions have been spent on equipping the military’s fight against terrorism, yet they are unable to deal with the issues.
He said, “So a lot of money has been spent. A lot of lives have been lost, and we are nowhere near finding a solution.
“The idea of a bill to enable Nigerians to carry firearms and defend themselves is born out of desperation. The fact is that people do not have the type of protection they need.”
“If you don’t want to handle a gun, that’s your problem…About 3 months ago, my SLA at the National Assembly was kidnapped. Up till now, he has not been found”
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– Senator Ned Nwoko https://t.co/a9DN9DJxO6 pic.twitter.com/C6AXz8RPJH@𝗼𝗻𝗲𝗷𝗼𝗯𝗹𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗯𝗼𝘆 (@OneJoblessBoy) February 1, 2024
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