A recent series of polls conducted by activists spearheading the #LiberalizeGunRights campaign have revealed a widespread desire among Nigerians for the liberalization of gun ownership in the country. The activists assert that their survey, consisting of seven questions, offers valuable insights into Nigerians’ views on self-defense, particularly amidst the escalating insecurity crisis.
A total of 325 Nigerians participated in the polls, which were conducted on both Microsoft Forms and Google Forms over a seven-day period. The survey aimed to gauge public opinion on various aspects of gun ownership and permitless carry, with questions tailored to different demographics and regions within Nigeria.
The survey results indicate overwhelming support for the liberalization of gun ownership across all segments of the population. A significant majority of respondents expressed support for granting Nigerians the right to own firearms, particularly in rural areas, farming communities, and regions affected by insecurity such as the Middle Belt and Southern Nigeria.
Specifically, 77% of respondents endorsed the liberalization of gun ownership for all Nigerians, while an even higher percentage, 92%, supported the idea for farmers. Similar levels of support were observed for rural areas (90%), the Middle Belt (91%), and Southern Nigeria (83%). However, opinions were more divided on the issue of permitless carry, with 59% opposing it for all Nigerians but a notable 44% supporting it for farmers.
Raphael Adebayo, a prominent activist involved in the #LiberalizeGunRights campaign, hailed the poll results as a clear indication of Nigerians’ desire to protect themselves and their communities from the threats posed by terrorism and kidnapping. He called on the 10th National Assembly to heed the wishes of the people and enact legislation to empower citizens to defend themselves, their properties, and their families.
Adebayo emphasized that such measures were crucial to reversing the current trajectory of insecurity in the country, which he described as turning Nigeria into the “Federal Republic of Terrorists and Kidnappers.”
The poll findings underscore the growing demand among Nigerians for greater autonomy in safeguarding their lives and property amid pervasive security challenges, highlighting the urgency for policymakers to address these concerns effectively.
