The Kuteb Elders Forum residing in Abuja, Nigeria, has condemned recent comments by former Minister of Defence, Lt. Gen. Theophilus Yakubu Danjuma (rtd), who called on Nigerians to arm themselves in the face of escalating insecurity. The group described the remarks as inflammatory and unconstitutional.
In a statement issued in Abuja on Thursday and signed by its spokesperson, Filip Ande, the Forum warned that such a call from a respected former military officer could fuel lawlessness and deepen national instability.
Danjuma, speaking at a recent event in Taraba State, asserted that Nigerians should “get arms to defend themselves against banditry,” arguing that the government and its security agencies have failed to curb the rising wave of violence. The Kuteb Elders Forum, however, sharply disagreed, insisting that the responsibility for security lies squarely with the state.
“While we acknowledge the serious security challenges facing the country, we strongly oppose civilians arming themselves,” the Forum said. “Such a directive is not only unconstitutional but also undermines the authority of legitimate government institutions.”
The group expressed particular concern that the advice came from a retired general, describing it as “reckless and disappointing.” They also accused Danjuma, a native of Taraba State, of using his influence to interfere in local leadership disputes, particularly the contest over the Ukwe Takum stool in Takum Local Government Area, the traditional seat of the Kuteb people.
“This is not the first time General Danjuma has made such inciting remarks,” the statement continued. “In 2018, a similar call to arms was followed by the discovery of bandits operating from one of his farms in Takum. That episode led to the deaths of more than 1,000 unarmed Kuteb civilians, destruction of over 200 villages, and the loss of several military lives, including a commanding officer of the 93 Battalion in Takum.”
The Forum urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Chief of Defence Staff, and the Inspector General of Police to investigate Danjuma’s comments and closely monitor security activities in Takum, Ussa Local Government, and the Yangtu Special Development Area, warning that such rhetoric could spark renewed violence in the region.
Despite the lingering threats, the Forum commended the Tinubu administration for recent strides in restoring peace in the area, noting that displaced Kuteb residents are gradually returning to their farmlands as security improves.
“We call on all Nigerians to reject General Danjuma’s call. Security is a constitutional duty of the government—not private individuals,” the statement emphasized. “We stand firmly behind President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and support all lawful efforts to bring lasting peace to our communities.”