By Osehobo Ofure Benin City
Prominent Edo lawyer and philanthropist, Barrister Kenneth Imasuagbon, has backed the recent call by retired General Theophilus Danjuma, urging Nigerians to defend themselves in the face of worsening insecurity.
Imasuagbon made this call during a press interaction to mark his 59th birthday arguing that the failure of government to provide adequate protection has made self-defense not just necessary but a civic duty.
“If we don’t defend ourselves, who will? Waiting for Abuja to act is becoming dangerous. We need vigilance groups, neighborhood watch teams, and strong community action,” he added.
He called on lawmakers and state governors to support these community driven defense strategies beyond paper legislation but adequate funding.
“We are not calling for lawlessness. We are calling for action. The Constitution does not say we should fold our arms while criminals take over,” he said.
Imasuangbon charged Nigerians: “Do not give in to fear. Our lives matter. Our families matter. If the government won’t fight for us, we must organized for ourselves with courage, unity, and purpose.”
Popularly known as the “Rice Man” for his humanitarian outreach in the state he expressed disappointment at the state of the nation, saying his birthday was not a moment of joy but of sober reflection.
“At 59, I should be celebrating progress, not speaking on government failure. People are being killed, kidnapped, and displaced daily, yet the government appears powerless,” he said.
He criticized what he described as the silence and inability of the Federal and State governments in the face of banditry, terrorism, and communal violence.
“The Nigerian state has failed in its primary responsibility to protect lives and property. When the government is silent, the people must not be silent. We must defend ourselves,” he said.
He added he is thankful to God for his life journey even he look forward to the future with hope and optimism .
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