Prominent Edo-born legal practitioner and philanthropist Barrister Kenneth Imansuangbon has said that Nigerians should heed the advice of Rtd. General Theophilus Danjuma and defend themselves in the face of growing insecurity and the government’s inability to provide protection.
Imansuangbon, popularly known as the “Rice Man” for his humanitarian outreach, made the call during a press interaction to mark his 59th birthday.
He expressed disappointment in 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,” the philanthropist stated.
He criticized what he described as the silence and inability of both 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,” Imansuangbon further stated.
Backing General Danjuma’s call, “Riceman,” as he is popularly called, said Nigerians must begin to organize local security structures to defend their communities.
“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 noted.
Imansuangbon called on lawmakers and state governors to support these community-driven defense strategies beyond paper legislation with 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 pointed out.
Imansuangbon charges Nigerians, “Do not give in to fear. Our lives matter. Our families matter. If the government won’t fight for us, we must organize for ourselves with courage, unity, and purpose.”
The legal practitioner added that he is thankful to God for his life journey even as he looks forward to the future with optimism.
