FG should look into sophisticated arms for vigilantes, says APGA presidential candidate

Peter Umeadi, the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), says there needs to be a conversation on sophisticated arms for vigilantes.

Speaking on Sunday at the town hall series on security and economy organised by ARISE TV, Umeadi, a former Anambra chief judge, said if elected president, he would ensure the creation of state police.

“I support the creation of state police. Vigilantes should be allowed to operate. The critical question is how they can work with arms,” he said.

“Herdsmen have AK-47, and people who defend a village do not? To solve insecurity, could we give military training to people going to NYSC eight months out of 12 months? 

“This will create a safe environment. If we look at it and it’s something to go with, I will go about it.”

Umeadi’s statement comes a few months after Rotimi Akeredolu, the governor of Ondo, said his state will procure arms for operatives of the Western Nigeria Security Network, codenamed Amotekun.

Samuel Ortom, governor of Benue, had also said if the federal government refused to approve the licence for arms for the state’s security outfit, he would get approval from his people.

Meanhwhile, Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo had said to effectively build a multi-ethnic nation like Nigeria, there would be need for the establishment of state police to address security challenges.