The Senator representing Delta North Senatorial District, Ned Nwoko, has clarified that his proposed Bill seeking legal backing for Nigerians to bear arms is intended for self-defense, particularly against kidnapping and other criminal activities.

Nwoko, who made this clarification during an interview with Channels TV, emphasized that arming citizens could deter criminals from operating freely.

The Delta North Senator recounted a personal experience, narrating how his Senior Legislative Aide was killed in a kidnapping incident in November 2023.

“The estate was attacked by kidnappers going from house to house. When they got to their door, my SLA told his wife to hide with the children. He opened the door to talk to them, and he was taken away. We never saw him alive again.”

This tragic event likely influenced Nwoko’s decision to sponsor the Bill because he believes that if his aide had been armed, the outcome might have been different.

“If he had a gun, or if others in the community had guns, would the kidnappers have had the audacity to go door to door? That wouldn’t happen,” he stated.

To address concerns about potential misuse, Nwoko’s proposal includes strict regulations.

“For you to have the license to have a gun, you must go through a training school… get confirmation from two doctors that you have a sound mind… get reports from the DSS and from the Police and be confirmed by your local traditional ruler that you are who you are,” remarked Nwoko.

Nwoko’s Bill aims to provide Nigerians with a means of self-defense, potentially reducing the nation’s security problems. When asked if arms-bearing by Nigerians would solve the issue.