As terrorists, bandits and other categories of criminals are unrelenting in their nefarious activities, governors are taking drastic measures to battle worsening insecurity in their states.
Governor Bello Matawalle has given the directive to Zamfara residents to obtain guns and defend themselves against invading insurgents who threaten their peace and tranquility.
He also mandated security agents to shoot motorcyclists on sight to remind them that the ban on commercial use of motorcycles is still in force.
Some Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs) gave their support to the Zamfara governor’s action, but retired Assistant Inspector-General (AIG) police Hakeem Odumosu described it as a recipe for more crises.
In Ondo State, as a follow-up to Governor Rotimi Akeredolu’s order for the installation of Closed-Circuit Television (CCTVs) in public and private institutions, including schools, churches and mosques, the House of Assembly has unfolded plans to tighten the law setting up the security outfit, Amotekun.
On June 5, terrorists invaded Owo, killing 40 worshipers in St. Francis Catholic Church. Sixty-one others were injured.
In Oyo State, Governor Seyi Makinde ordered the recruitment of another 500 operatives to strengthen Amotekun.
Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma issued a 10-day ultimatum to bandits to embrace amnesty or face bombardment.
Two weeks ago, Akeredolu, while speaking on the security situation in the country had alerted that governors cannot fold their arms or rely exclusively on the distant federal police to adequately protect the lives and property of residents.
He also said the Federal Government should brace up for a situation whereby citizens will take their destiny into their hands and carry guns to defend themselves against terror.