Plateau Attacks: COAS Gives Reasons Nigerians Cannot Be Allowed To Carry Arms Openly

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja has dismissed calls for self-defence in the wake of attacks in Plateau.

Over 195 persons died in the most recent attacks in the North-Central state with scores wounded.

While the development has elicited outcry in and outside the country, the Army Chief believes self-defence amounts to “anarchy”.

“I do not support that. I think that is a call for anarchy,” he said on Sunday during a television programme.

According to him, the Nigerian Army can defend the country and as such, there is no need for self-defence.

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He also said as part of efforts to bolster security in the Plateau, more troops are being deployed to the area.

“I have reeled out our plans for 2024 for Plateau State. The troops that we are deploying to Plateau, are on their way to Plateau now,” he said.

“This night or first light tomorrow, they should be on the Plateau. We are sending more equipment to enhance the efficiency of the troops.”

Over 50 villages were said to be affected by the attacks with President Bola Tinubu calling for a thorough probe.