The Katsina State Commissioner of Internal Security and Home Affairs, Nasir Muazu, has cleared the air on what he described as misrepresentations regarding the state’s approach to community security.

Muazu said the state government has not directed citizens to acquire arms and defend themselves against banditry.

According to him, the government has only taken a proactive and revolving approach to addressing the security challenges faced by remote communities, especially those in the eight frontline local government areas of the state.

A statement signed by Ibrahim Mohammed, the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Radda, on Thursday, read, “The Katsina State Government under the leadership of His Excellency, Dikko Radda PhD CON, has cleared the recent misrepresentations regarding the state’s approach to community security.

"The State Government has only taken a proactive and revolving approach to addressing the security challenges faced by remote communities, especially those in the eight frontline local government areas of the state.

“Rather than encouraging citizens to arm themselves individually, the government has implemented a Community Volunteer Groups programme to train and equip the community volunteers with Dane Guns and other necessary skills and resources to protect themselves and their communities.

"The Community Volunteer Groups are designed to serve as the first line of defence in villages and communities that are difficult for security forces to reach quickly for interventions.

“By empowering local residents with the knowledge and tools to protect themselves, the state government aims to enhance overall security and reduce the impact of bandits’ attacks.

“The state government emphasises that this programme, known as the Community Volunteer Groups (CVG) clearly demonstrates government’s resolve to carry the people along in the fight against insecurity.

“The move involves careful vetting and training of individuals from frontline local government areas in self-defence techniques, adding that: These volunteers are provided with Dane Guns, which are permitted under Nigerian law, to be used only as a last resort when necessary.

“The Katsina State Government remains committed to the safety and security of all its citizens and will continue to work in collaboration with federal security agencies to ensure peace and stability across the state,” the statement added.

The PUNCH learnt that recently there were reports from some sections about the administration of Dikko Radda urging citizens to arm themselves against terrorists.

Culled from PUNCH