The Acting Inspector-General of Police (Ag. IGP), Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has announced the establishment of an ad hoc committee tasked with the comprehensive review of firearms licensing and regulations by the Nigeria Police Force.
This was as he reiterated the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to eradicate illicit arms thus, ordered Commissioners of Police, Squads to clamp down on illegal owners
IGP Egbetokun said the move is in line with the Firearms Act and other extant laws which are in the interest of public safety and general security.
A statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, said that 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 Force spokesman said that 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.
The statement further said that 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, stressing that illegal proliferation of firearms and light weapons poses a significant threat to the peace and stability of the nation.
IGP Egbetokun said that towards this end, the 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 the society.
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.
He therefore 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.
IGP Egbetokun 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.
