The Emir of Argungu, Alhaji Muhammad Samaila Mera, has called on residents across communities within the Argungu Emirate in Kebbi State to take lawful steps toward protecting themselves from the growing threat of banditry and other violent crimes.

The traditional ruler made the appeal during a meeting with district heads, village heads and ward leaders at his palace in Argungu, where concerns over persistent insecurity dominated discussions.

Addressing the gathering, the Emir stressed the need for communities to become more security-conscious and proactive in safeguarding lives and property. He encouraged residents to work together in establishing community-based self-defence structures and to legally acquire approved weapons for protection.

According to him, communities that possess the capacity to defend themselves are less likely to become easy targets for criminal groups.

He noted that when bandits become aware that residents can respond to attacks, such knowledge alone could serve as a strong deterrent against future invasions.

The monarch also argued that self-preservation is consistent with Islamic teachings, insisting that citizens should not remain helpless while criminals carry out killings, kidnappings and other violent acts.

Mera lamented the situation in many rural communities where residents often abandon their homes during attacks due to a lack of defensive capability.

He observed that even traditional leaders are sometimes forced to flee alongside other villagers whenever armed bandits strike, describing the development as a reflection of the security challenges confronting the region.

The Emir, however, clarified that his remarks should not be interpreted as support for vigilantism or unlawful use of arms. He emphasized that any form of self-defence must remain within the confines of the law and in collaboration with constituted authorities.

While acknowledging the efforts of security agencies, he maintained that the scale of insecurity in some communities requires residents to play a more active role in protecting themselves.

Mera further warned against using weapons for ethnic confrontations, revenge missions or extrajudicial killings, stressing that violence often escalates when innocent people are targeted in retaliation for crimes committed by others.

According to him, cycles of revenge have contributed significantly to recurring conflicts and attacks in affected areas.

The traditional ruler also alleged that although many members of the Lakurawa group had reportedly left the area, armed criminal elements linked to the group remained active and continued to pose security threats to local communities.

He urged residents throughout the emirate to maintain close cooperation with security agencies, remain vigilant at all times and uphold moral values as authorities continue efforts to tackle insecurity across the region.