The Kuteb Elders Forum, a group representing the Kuteb people of Taraba State residing in Abuja, has condemned recent remarks by former Minister of Defence, Lt. Gen. Theophilus Yakubu Danjuma (rtd), in which he urged Nigerians to arm themselves in response to rising insecurity across the country.
In a statement released to journalists on Thursday and signed by the forum spokesperson Mr. Filip Ande, the Forum described Danjuma’s comments as “dangerous, unconstitutional, and a threat to national unity and peace”.
Danjuma, during a recent event in Taraba State, had asserted that Nigerians must “get arms to defend themselves against banditry,” claiming that the government and security agencies alone could not manage the country’s growing security crisis.
However, the Kuteb Elders Forum firmly rejected this stance.
“While we acknowledge the serious security challenges facing the country, we strongly oppose civilians arming themselves. Such a call violates the constitution and undermines the authority of the government and security institutions,” the statement read.
The Forum expressed particular concern that the statement came from a retired general, labeling it “unfortunate and reckless.” It also accused Danjuma, who hails from Taraba State, of exploiting his influence to undermine the traditional leadership of the Kuteb people, particularly the Ukwe Takum stool in Takum Local Government Area.
“This is not the first time General Danjuma has made such provocative statements. After a similar call in March 2018, bandits were discovered operating from one of his farms in Takum, leading to widespread attacks on our communities”, the Forum said.
According to the Forum, those attacks resulted in the deaths of more than 1,000 unarmed Kuteb civilians, the destruction of over 200 villages, and the killing of several soldiers, including a commanding officer of the 93 Battalion in Takum.
They urged President Bola Tinubu, the Chief of Defence Staff and the Inspector General of Police to thoroughly investigate Danjuma’s recent remarks and closely monitor security activities in Takum, Ussa Local Government Area, and the Yangtu Special Development Area.
They also commended the Federal Government and the security agencies for recent efforts to restore peace in Kuteb communities, noting that displaced residents have begun returning to their farms amid improved security.
“We urge well-meaning Nigerians to disregard General Danjuma’s call. The responsibility of safeguarding lives and property lies with the government, not with civilians,” the Forum emphasized.
“We stand with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and support the ongoing efforts to defeat insecurity through lawful and constitutional means.”
