Acting Inspector-general of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun has set up an ad-hoc committee to conduct a comprehensive review of firearms licensing and regulations by the Nigeria Police Force in line with the Firearms Act and other extant laws.
The force’s public relations officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, said the move is in the interest of public safety and general security.
The committee’s mandate encompasses a thorough assessment of current firearms licensing procedures and regulations, to enhance their effectiveness, transparency, and accountability.
Adejobi also said 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 furtherance of his zeal to tackle all forms of insecurity in the country, the IGP has issued a stern warning to all individuals involved in the wrongful possession of arms and light weapons, reiterated that illegal proliferation of firearms and light weapons poses a significant threat to the peace and stability of our nation.
“In light of this, the Nigeria Police Force is resolutely determined to combat the illegal fabrication, sales, possession and use of arms emphasizing that possessing firearms without the appropriate licenses and permits is not only a violation of the law but also a grave danger to society,” Mr Adejobi said.
The IGP 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.
Meanwhile, the police boss 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.
He equally urged all Nigerians to report suspicious activities related to firearms to their local police divisions or via the various NPF social media platforms for prompt response.
