September 12, (THEWILL) – Acting Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, has set up an ad-hoc committee tasked with the comprehensive review of firearms licencing and regulations by the Nigeria Police Force, in line with the Firearms Act and other extant laws.
Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO), ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, said the committee’s mandate will encompass a thorough assessment of current firearms licencing procedures and regulations, with the aim of enhancing their effectiveness, transparency and accountability.
Adejobi, who said the decision was done in the interest of public safety and general security, also said the Police will engage with relevant stakeholders including legal experts, civil society organisations, and experts in the field, to ensure a holistic and well-informed review.
The IGP has also expressed commitment to combat the illegal fabrication, sales, possession and use of arms, emphasising that possessing firearms without the appropriate licences and permits is not only a violation of the law, but also a grave danger to society.
Egbetokun assured that the Nigeria Police Force will spare no effort in pursuing and prosecuting those engaged in these illegal activities.
Consequently, the IGP has directed 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.
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