…Seeks Foreign Help, State Police, and Civilian Firearm Rights
By Comfort Olayinka
Hon. Kabiru Amadu Maipalace, the lawmaker representing Gusau/Tsafe federal constituency in Zamfara State, has raised alarm over the escalating wave of insecurity sweeping across the country, insisting that Nigeria is fast losing control of its internal security architecture.
Speaking in an exclusive interview, the lawmaker recounted the terrifying attacks in his constituency which prompted his recent Matter of Urgent Public Importance on the floor of the House of Representatives.
According to him, bandits recently imposed an illegal levy of ₦100 million on his constituents, issuing a two-week ultimatum for payment or face violent reprisals.
“After imposing that levy, they kidnapped 120 people and killed 12 others,” Maipalace revealed. “That was why I had to raise the motion. My people are under siege.”
Insecurity is Everywhere — Leadership Has Failed
The federal lawmaker noted that insecurity is no longer confined to the North but has become a national crisis affecting all regions in different dimensions. He blamed weak governance and what he described as insufficient political will from leaders.
“If we were doing enough as leaders, this level of insecurity would not exist. We are not doing enough. That is the truth.”
Rejects Peace Deals With Bandits
Maipalace condemned ongoing negotiations between some authorities and bandits, describing the process as “a mockery of national security.”
“The bandits dictate the terms. They attend peace meetings with heavy weapons. They do not surrender a single arm. They threaten government officials and go back to attack the next day. What kind of peace deal is that?”
He insisted that Nigeria must be decisive and take “war to the bandits,” adding that the failure to do so raises fundamental questions about the country’s capacity to defend itself.
Open to International Military Assistance
When asked about the prospect of foreign assistance, the lawmaker was unequivocal:
“If we cannot secure the country, we must seek help — from the U.S., from Egypt, from anywhere. People’s lives are at stake. If we cannot protect them, then let those who can, come and help us.”
Calls for Legal Firearm Ownership for Tired Citizens
Maipalace also urged the Federal Government to allow law-abiding Nigerians own registered firearms for self-defense.
“Our security agencies can no longer secure us adequately. If they can’t protect the people, then let the people protect themselves.”
Supports Withdrawal of Police Escorts From VIPs
Reacting to President’s recent withdrawal of police escorts from VIPs and reassignment to NSCDC, the lawmaker expressed full support.
“Why should VIPs enjoy full protection while ordinary citizens are being killed? It is a perfect decision. Even I, as a member of the House, do not move with police escorts. I move alone.”
Strong Push for State Police
Maipalace strongly endorsed the establishment of state police, arguing that no security system can defeat criminal networks better than locals who understand the terrain.
“A police officer recruited from Enugu doesn’t know the bushes of Zamfara. That’s why bandits ambush them easily. But if you recruit local police from every local government, security will improve drastically.”
He cited the success of recently constituted Community Protection Guards (CPG) in parts of Zamfara as proof that local security structures are more effective.
