Former Lagos governorship candidate Babatunde Gbadamosi set off a storm online after a blunt social-media post urging Nigerians to arm themselves — naming weapons from crossbows to AK-47s, GPMGs and RPGs — and telling people to “learn to use them.” The post, shared on X, also warned citizens to resist any attempt to be disarmed and framed the message as protection against what he described as “Fulani Muslim Jihadist Terrorists.” 

The message quickly divided opinion. Supporters argued it reflected the frustration of many Nigerians over rising insecurity and perceived failures of state protection. Critics called the post reckless, dangerous, and potentially unlawful — warning that public calls to arm civilians could inflame violence, encourage arms trafficking, and undermine rule of law. Several news sites and social feeds amplified the row within hours of the post.

Legal and practical concerns
Beyond the emotional reaction, experts and commentators pointed out immediate problems with the suggestion: most military-grade weapons are illegal for private ownership, acquiring them typically involves criminal networks, and encouraging civilians to use heavy arms raises serious public-safety and human-rights risks. Observers also warned that vigilantism can worsen insecurity and lead to mistaken identities, reprisals, and civilian casualties. Naija News

What people are saying
Reactions on X and in comment sections ranged from outright support to strong condemnation. Some urged better community self-help and local security initiatives; others demanded that authorities investigate and, where appropriate, sanction anyone whose statements may incite violence. The controversy also reignited broader debates about how best to tackle banditry and terrorism: strengthen policing and intelligence, accelerate community policing reforms, or — as some frustrated citizens propose — allow greater civilian arming.

Why this matters
Calls to arm civilians tend to surface where trust in formal security institutions is low. But mainstream security analysts and human-rights groups argue that sustainable safety depends on accountable state responses, rule-of-law measures, and community-focused prevention — not the proliferation of weapons. As the debate continues online, many legal and security experts are urging calm, stronger institutional responses, and public messaging that discourages illegal arms possession.