NPF Sets Up Regulations Committee To Combat Illegal Possession Of Firearms

By Nifemi Oriola

The acting Inspector-General of Police, Olukayode Egbetokun, has reported the formation of an ad hoc committee entrusted with the comprehensive evaluation of regulations and licensing of firearms by the Nigeria Police Force as this is in line with the Firearms Act and other extant laws, and in the interest of public safety and general security.

Egbetokun, on Monday, stated that the committee’s mandate will consist a thorough assessment of current firearms licensing procedures and regulations, with the aim of enhancing their effectiveness, transparency, and accountability.

The Force Headquarters added 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. ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the Force Public Relations Officer, revealed on Monday in an official correspondence that in furtherance of the IG’s zeal to tackle all forms of insecurity in the country, the IG 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.

He added that 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.

He 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. Adejobi said that in furtherance of the IG’s zeal to tackle all forms of insecurity in the country, he has issued a stern warning to all individuals involved in the wrongful possession of arms and light weapons, and reiterated that illegal proliferation of firearms and light weapons poses a significant threat to the peace and stability of our nation.

It was noted earlier by the IG that gun licensing may aggravate insecurity in the country, while adding that the police might review or revert the ban in the future.

It should be noted that the Firearm Act has been responsible for the control of firearms in Nigeria for the previous years.