Bishop Matthew Kukah, the outspoken cleric of the Catholic Diocese of Sokoto, has strongly rejected the notion that arming communities for self-defence can resolve Nigeria’s crippling security crisis.
Speaking at a national dialogue in Abuja on Thursday, Kukah contended that relying on self-defence only provides a "false sense of security" and fails to address the deep-rooted societal issues fuelling violence across the nation.
The Bishop’s comments were delivered at an event focused on promoting a 'Whole-of-Society Approach to Prevention of Violence and Conflict in Northern Nigeria,' organised by the National Peace Committee, the Kukah Centre, and the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA).
Kukah emphasised that the insecurity plaguing the country—characterised by banditry, kidnapping, and communal clashes—is symptomatic of "underlying ailments" such as unstable homes, fragmented communities, and weakened moral foundations. These vulnerabilities, he argued, are what truly create fertile ground for criminals.
He questioned the practicality of widespread arming, raising concerns about the potential for further chaos: “There is a growing belief that communities can defend themselves by arming up. But arms will not solve our problems... And when peace returns, where will those weapons go?”
Instead of advocating for military or armed solutions, Kukah called for a collective national effort rooted in justice and courage. He stressed that the solution lies in every citizen coming together to fight the "common enemy," irrespective of ethnic or religious background.
“We meet because we believe Nigeria is worth fighting for—not with weapons, but with truth, courage, justice and compassion,” the Bishop stated.
He urged the nation to view its "extraordinary diversity" as an asset, citing the United States of America as an example of a nation that thrives because of its diverse population.
Kukah outlined specific roles for different segments of society in the 'Whole-of-Society' model: The government must lead with humility, transparency, and justice, while religious and traditional leaders must guide with courage, particularly in confronting extremism within their own communities. Ultimately, individuals and families are the starting point, as peace must begin where we are.
He also made a strong plea for inclusivity, stating the necessity to build trust and ensure the participation and representation of all, especially women, who constitute the majority of the population but often lack a voice.
