Governor of Katsina State, Aminu Bello Masari, has encouraged residents of the state to arm themselves and confront bandits terrorizing them.
According to the governor, the security officials alone cannot tackle insecurity in the state.
Speaking during a media parley in Katsina, Masari stressed that the number of security personnel in the state was not enough to tackle the situation.
Governor Masari stated that Islamically it is allowed for one to defend himself against attack adding that one must rise to defend himself, his family, and his assets.
He noted that the state government would help those who plan to own arms to help bring an end to the spate of banditry in the state.
Mr Masari said the police would register all guns bought by the residents to ensure they are put to the right use.
Katsina, like other North-west states Zamfara, Kaduna, Sokoto, and Kebbi, has witnessed incessant attacks by terror groups.
Hundreds of people have been killed or kidnapped in Katsina this year with thousands more displaced from their home.
(Ripples Nigeria)