IGP orders clampdown on illegal firearms owners, inaugurates committee to review licensing
The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Ag. IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has ordered a clampdown on individual in unlawful possession of firearms.
The Force PRO, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi in a statement yesterday made this known.
The IGP issued a stern warning to all individuals involved in the wrongful possession of arms and light weapons while reiterating that illegal proliferation of firearms and light weapons poses a significant threat to the peace and stability of the nation.
He noted that the IGP has charged all State Commissioners of Police and supervising Assistant Inspectors-General of Police in charge of Zonal Commands, and tactical squads to commence a total clampdown on the illegal fabrication, sale, possession, and use of prohibited firearms in the country.
The IGP also announced the establishment of an ad hoc committee tasked with the comprehensive review of firearms licensing and regulations by the Nigeria Police Force in line with the Firearms Act and other extant laws, in the interest of public safety and general security.
“The Committee’s mandate will encompass a thorough assessment of current firearms licensing procedures and regulations, with the aim of enhancing their effectiveness, transparency, and accountability. The Police will engage with relevant stakeholders, including legal experts, civil society organizations, and experts in the field, to ensure a holistic and well-informed review.
“In light of this, the Nigeria Police Force is resolutely determined to combat the illegal fabrication, sales, possession and use of arms emphasising that possessing firearms without the appropriate licenses and permits is not only a violation of the law but also a grave danger to society,” the statement read.
He also assured that the Nigeria Police Force will spare no effort in pursuing and prosecuting those engaged in these illegal activities to the full extent of the law.
Ag. IGP Egbetokun equally urged all Nigerians to report suspicious activities related to firearms to their local police divisions or via the various Nigeria Police Force social media platforms for prompt response.
