The Kuteb Elders Forum, representing the Kuteb people of Taraba State residing in Abuja, has issued a strong condemnation of recent statements made by former Minister of Defence, Lt. Gen. Theophilus Yakubu Danjuma (rtd), who urged Nigerians to arm themselves in response to the country's growing insecurity challenges.

In a statement released on Thursday and signed by forum spokesperson Mr. Filip Ande, the group described Danjuma's remarks as "dangerous, unconstitutional, and a threat to national unity and peace."

Danjuma had reportedly stated during a recent event in Taraba State that Nigerians must "get arms to defend themselves against banditry," suggesting that the government and security agencies alone were insufficient to address the nation's security crisis.

"While we acknowledge the serious security challenges facing the country, we strongly oppose civilians arming themselves. Such a call violates the constitution and undermines the authority of the government and security institutions," the Kuteb Elders' statement read.

The Forum expressed particular concern that such statements came from a retired general, labeling them "unfortunate and reckless." They further accused Danjuma, who hails from Taraba State, of exploiting his influence to undermine the traditional leadership of the Kuteb people, particularly regarding the Ukwe Takum stool in Takum Local Government Area.

"This is not the first time General Danjuma has made such provocative statements. After a similar call in March 2018, bandits were discovered operating from one of his farms in Takum, leading to widespread attacks on our communities," the Forum alleged.

According to the elders, those attacks resulted in the deaths of more than 1,000 unarmed Kuteb civilians, the destruction of over 200 villages, and the killing of several soldiers, including a commanding officer of the 93 Battalion in Takum.

The Forum has called on President Bola Tinubu, the Chief of Defence Staff, and the Inspector General of Police to thoroughly investigate Danjuma's recent remarks and closely monitor security activities in Takum, Ussa Local Government Area, and the Yangtu Special Development Area.

They also commended the Federal Government and security agencies for recent efforts to restore peace in Kuteb communities, noting that displaced residents have begun returning to their farms amid improved security conditions.

"We urge well-meaning Nigerians to disregard General Danjuma's call. The responsibility of safeguarding lives and property lies with the government, not with civilians," the Forum emphasized. "We stand with President Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda and support the ongoing efforts to defeat insecurity through lawful and constitutional means."