House of Rep member Under Fire for Allegedly Distributing Guns to Constituents to Fight Bandits

House of Rep member Under Fire for Allegedly Distributing Guns to Constituents to Fight Bandits

A member of the House of Representatives from Katsina State, representing Funtua Federal Constituency, has come under scrutiny following reports that he distributed guns to his constituents for self-defense against bandit attacks.

The move has sparked heated debate. Supporters argue that the gesture is a bold attempt to protect vulnerable communities abandoned to their fate, while critics describe it as unlawful and potentially dangerous.

Legal analysts warn that the Nigerian Firearms Act prohibits the possession or distribution of firearms without clearance from security agencies. They caution that arming civilians could worsen insecurity rather than solve it.

Security agencies in Katsina are yet to confirm or deny the report, while the lawmaker himself has not issued an official statement.

Banditry remains one of the most pressing security challenges in Katsina and the wider Northwest, with frequent attacks leading to mass displacement and loss of lives.