Nollywood actress and filmmaker Ruth Kadiri has sparked nationwide discussion after calling on authorities to allow Nigerians the ability to defend themselves in the face of growing insecurity across the country.
The actress made her position known in a post shared on her social media page on Tuesday, where she expressed concern over the rising rate of violent attacks, killings, and what she described as an increasing atmosphere of fear in several communities across Nigeria.
In her brief but pointed message, she wrote: “Give us power to defend ourselves.”
Her statement quickly gained attention online, with many Nigerians interpreting it as a reflection of the growing frustration among citizens over persistent security challenges affecting different parts of the country.
Kadiri emphasized that safety is a basic human need and should not be treated as a privilege available only to a few. She noted that many citizens now feel exposed and vulnerable due to recurring reports of kidnappings, armed attacks, and other violent incidents that have left families devastated.
According to her, the inability of many communities to protect themselves has contributed to a deepening sense of fear and helplessness, especially in areas where security presence is limited or slow to respond.
The actress’s comment has since triggered widespread reactions on social media, with Nigerians divided on the issue but many agreeing that her concerns reflect the reality on the ground.
Some users described her statement as a voice for ordinary citizens who feel unheard amid worsening insecurity.
One user, @EmekaTalks, wrote: “Ruth Kadiri only said what millions of Nigerians are afraid to say. People are tired of living in fear.”
Another user, @DebbieWrites, added: “The government should secure lives first. Citizens should not have to beg for safety.”
Others, however, warned that calls for self-defence must be carefully considered, stressing that access to weapons or unregulated defence could lead to further complications if not properly controlled by law.
Kadiri, who is widely known for her roles in emotional family dramas and her work as a producer in Nollywood, has often used her platform to speak on social issues affecting everyday Nigerians.
Over the years, she has built a reputation not only as an actress but also as a vocal commentator on societal challenges, particularly those affecting women, families, and young people.
Her latest comment adds to ongoing national conversations about insecurity, which has remained a major concern in Nigeria, with citizens frequently calling on the government to strengthen security operations and improve rapid response systems.
Security experts have repeatedly advised that while citizens’ concerns are valid, structured reforms, intelligence-driven policing, and community engagement remain more sustainable solutions to insecurity than unregulated self-defence.
Nevertheless, Kadiri’s statement reflects a growing sentiment among Nigerians who feel that existing security measures are not enough to protect lives and property in many parts of the country.
As discussions continue online, her comment has further amplified public pressure on authorities to address insecurity more decisively and restore confidence in the safety of citizens across communities nationwide.
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