IGP sets up gun licensing, regulations committee

Olukayode Egbetokun, Nigeria’s acting Inspector-General of Police, has announced the establishment of an ad hoc committee that will be responsible for the comprehensive review of firearms licensing and regulations by the Nigeria Police Force in line with the Firearms Act and other extant laws, in the interest of public safety and general security.

The police high command, on Monday, revealed that the committee’s mandate would encompass a thorough assessment of current firearms licensing procedures and regulations, to enhance their effectiveness, transparency, and accountability.

According to the Force Headquarters, 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.

This development was made known by Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, via official correspondence on Monday.

Adejobi said, “Similarly, in furtherance of his 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, reiterating that illegal proliferation of firearms and light weapons poses a significant threat to the peace and stability of our nation.

“In light of this, the Nigeria Police Force is resolutely determined to combat the illegal fabrication, sales, possession and use of arms emphasising 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.

“The Inspector General of Police has 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.