Africa ( Commonwealth Union ) _ Acting Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun has taken a significant step towards addressing the issue of insecurity in Nigeria by announcing the formation of an ad hoc committee to conduct a comprehensive review of firearms licensing and regulations within the Nigeria Police Force (NPF). This move aligns with the Firearms Act and other existing laws, all in the pursuit of enhancing public safety and overall security.
The primary objective of this committee is to conduct a thorough evaluation of the current procedures and regulations related to firearms licensing. The aim is to make these processes more effective, transparent, and accountable. In doing so, it seeks to bring about a higher level of control and scrutiny in the issuance of firearm licenses, which is crucial in a country grappling with various security challenges.
The announcement, communicated through Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO) Olumuyiwa Adejobi, highlights the intention to engage with a range of stakeholders, including legal experts, civil society organizations (CSOs), and field experts. This collaborative approach ensures a well-informed and comprehensive review, taking into account various perspectives and insights.
Furthermore, IGP Egbetokun has emphasized his commitment to tackling the issue of illegal possession of arms and light weapons. He has pointed out that the proliferation of illegal firearms poses a significant threat to the nation’s peace and stability. To address this, the Nigeria Police Force is determined to combat the unlawful manufacturing, sale, possession, and use of firearms.
The IGP has made it clear that possessing firearms without the appropriate licenses and permits not only violates the law but also endangers society. To enforce this stance, the NPF will vigorously pursue and prosecute individuals involved in such illegal activities, utilizing the full extent of the law.
In addition to these measures, the IGP has called upon police commissioners, Assistant Inspectors General of Police (AIGs) overseeing zonal commands, and tactical squads to intensify efforts in clamping down on the illegal fabrication, sale, possession, and use of prohibited firearms throughout the country. This proactive approach seeks to curb the flow of illicit weapons.
Lastly, the IGP has urged the public to report any suspicious activities related to firearms to their local police divisions or via the NPF’s social media platforms. This call for citizen involvement underscores the importance of collective efforts in addressing the complex issue of firearm proliferation and its impact on security in Nigeria.
