IGP Orders Police to Take Immediate Action Against Illegal Gun Carriers Nationwide

 

By Samuel Ajimati 

The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Disu, has directed police officers across Nigeria to take decisive action against individuals found carrying illegal firearms, warning that armed suspects posing security threats should be confronted immediately in line with existing operational guidelines.

The directive was issued on Friday during a stakeholders’ security meeting held at the Government House in Makurdi, the Benue State capital.

Addressing participants, the IGP said President Bola Tinubu had made it clear that the persistent insecurity in Benue State must be brought under control. He stressed that only security personnel legally authorised to carry firearms would be allowed to do so.

Disu said the Nigeria Police Force had moved away from passive policing and would now adopt a more proactive approach to tackling armed criminality.

According to him, officers have been reminded of the provisions of Force Order 237, which outlines the circumstances under which firearms may be used in the course of duty. He explained that officers are empowered to respond appropriately to life-threatening situations without waiting for additional approval from superior officers.

The IGP lamented the increasing loss of police officers and other security personnel in the line of duty, describing the situation as unacceptable.

He, however, emphasized that the fight against insecurity cannot be won by security agencies alone, calling on residents to cooperate with law enforcement by providing timely information and supporting ongoing security efforts.

The renewed directive forms part of broader measures aimed at strengthening security operations and reducing violent crime across the country, particularly in areas experiencing persistent attacks.