Insecurity: Lawan Advocates Stiffer Penalties Against Illegal Firearms Bearers 

BY VICTOR BUORO, ABUJA – President of the Senate, Ahmad Lawan, has advocated for stiffer penalties against anyone caught in possession of firearm not legally procured in Nigeria.

Lawan stressed that the issue of insecurity across parts of the country would have been nipped but for the continued illegal proliferation of firearms in the country.

The Senate President, who state these in his remarks following the Upper Chamber’s consideration of a bill seeking to amend the Firearms Act, 2004, said that the security situation would have been far better, if there was better control of the proliferation of firearms in the country.

Lawan further said; “I believe that there is no compromise for stiffer penalties for anyone caught with an illegal arm”.

While expressing optimism about the readiness of the executive arm of government in addressing the nation’s security challenges, Lawan pledged the willingness of the legislature to ensure an improved situation for Nigerians.

He said; “The security situation can still be reversed once we continue to remain focused and committed. And, for us in the a National Assembly, it has been a very difficult time, probably the most difficult time, because our people face this daily security challenges, and the question is always, what are you people doing?

“Unfortunately, the legislature is limited in what it can do. It cannot implement, but it can talk about it, debate and insist on it.

“I believe that this executive is ready to do something to improve the security situation. Now that we are seeing a different or an improved approach, maybe the end to the insecurity in the country is at sight.

“Recently, of course, we have seen the National Security Adviser, working with the Service Chiefs and others in a coordinated manner. We pray that this is sustained, and that for us, we will give them every possible support,” Lawan said.

Earlier, sponsor of the Firearms Act 2004 (Amendment) bill, Senator Uba Sani (APC – Kaduna Central) said the aim of the proposed amendments is to curtail the proliferation of illegal arms and effectively address some of the security challenges currently plaguing Nigeria.

The Bill after consideration, was referred by the Senate President, Ahmad Lawan, to the Senate Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters for further legislative work.

The Committee which is chaired by Senator Michael Opeyemi Bamidele (APC-Ekiti) is expected to report back within four weeks.