Retired military officer Tony Nyiam has called for a new approach to security in Nigeria, especially after the recent killings in Plateau State. Nyiam, who was part of the failed 1990 coup against General Ibrahim Babangida, said the government is not doing enough to protect local communities from attacks.
Speaking in an interview with PUNCH on Saturday July 19 2025, he said people in places like Plateau and Tiv areas should be trained and legally armed to defend themselves.
According to him, if these communities had their own security teams trained in special tactics, they would be better prepared to protect their land and families.
Nyiam pointed out that armed foreigners are entering Nigeria with dangerous weapons like AK-47s, yet they are not being arrested. Meanwhile, local people trying to defend themselves with traditional weapons are being punished. He said this shows a clear imbalance and unfair treatment.
His words,
“Now, you have a situation in Nigeria whereby a foreigner who is armed with an AK-47 comes into your country, and nobody arrests them for carrying illegal arms. Meanwhile, you’re arresting a Tiv man for carrying his native gun to defend himself. For example, these people should be trained and armed to defend their homeland.”
Explore More News By Using The Button Below.
