APGA Youth Leader Advocates for Civilian Firearm Ownership

Abuja, Nigeria – The National Youth Leader of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Mr. Eze-Onyebuchi Chukwu, has called on President Bola Tinubu to introduce a bill that would allow responsible Nigerians to own firearms for self-defense.

In a statement issued on Saturday in Abuja, Chukwu, who also serves as the Co-chairman of the Forum of National Youth Leaders of All Political Parties in Nigeria, congratulated President Tinubu on his 73rd birthday while highlighting the urgent need to tackle the country’s growing security challenges.

He commended Tinubu for his efforts in advancing the nation, but stressed that insecurity, ranging from kidnapping to armed robbery, has reached alarming levels. According to him, security agencies alone cannot effectively curb the menace, making it necessary for law-abiding citizens to have the means to protect themselves.

“The need for responsible firearm ownership cannot be overemphasized,” Chukwu stated. “We have seen disturbing evidence of helpless citizens falling victim to criminals who possess illegal firearms.”

He further pointed out that both elderly individuals and young, able-bodied men have become vulnerable to teenage criminals simply because they lack the means to defend themselves.

Chukwu urged the President to work with the National Assembly to draft a bill that would grant qualified Nigerians the right to own firearms under strict regulations. He emphasized that only individuals who pass rigorous background checks, including mental health evaluations and criminal record assessments, should be eligible for gun ownership.

“If this measure is implemented, the rate of insecurity will drop significantly, easing the burden on our security forces,” he argued.

While acknowledging concerns about potential firearm misuse, Chukwu maintained that the benefits of responsible gun ownership far outweigh the risks. He insisted that such a policy would serve as a strong deterrent to crime and enhance national security.

The APGA Youth Leader concluded by urging policymakers to take bold steps toward empowering citizens to defend themselves, emphasizing that safety and security should remain a top priority for the government.