The Zamfara State Government has directed residents of the state to obtain guns in order to defend themselves against bandits who appear to be ravaging the state.
The directive was contained in a statement by the state Commissioner for Information, Mr Ibrahim Dosara.
The government noted that the measure became necessary following the deteriorating security situation in parts of the state.
The statement partly read, “Government has henceforth, directed individuals to prepare and obtain guns to defend themselves against the bandits, as the government has directed the state commissioner of police to issue a license to all those who qualify and are wishing to obtain such guns to defend themselves.”
The Editorial reports that the commissioner added that the government has already concluded arrangements to distribute 500 forms to each of the 19 emirates in the state for those willing to obtain the guns.
Dosara asked those who are qualified and willing to own guns to reach out to the state Commissioner of Police and obtain gun licenses after satisfying the necessary criteria.
Beyond obtaining guns, the state government has also ordered the recruitment of 200 additional Community Protection Guards in each of the 19 emirates of the state.
Additionally, Governor Mohammed Matawalle has ordered that all markets within the Mada, Wonaka, and Ruwan Bore Districts of Gusau local government, as well as Yansoto emirate in Tsafe local government area, be shut, while motorcycle operations have been banned.