Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Olatunji Disu has directed police officers across Nigeria to take decisive action against individuals found carrying illegal firearms, as part of efforts to strengthen security and combat violent crime.
Speaking during a stakeholders’ meeting at the Government House in Makurdi, Benue State, the IGP said the directive followed President Bola Tinubu’s instruction to intensify measures aimed at ending the persistent insecurity in the state.
Disu stated that only authorised security personnel are legally permitted to carry firearms, warning that unlawful possession of weapons would no longer be tolerated.
He explained that officers have been empowered under Force Order 237 to respond immediately to armed threats without waiting for approval from senior officers.
The police chief said the decision was driven by the need to protect security personnel, stressing that officers have received the necessary training to respond appropriately while carrying out their duties.
He also urged members of the public to support security agencies by providing credible intelligence, noting that community cooperation remains vital in addressing armed criminality.
The renewed directive comes as Benue State continues to experience recurring attacks by armed groups, prompting the Federal Government to deploy additional security personnel and implement tougher measures aimed at restoring peace and safeguarding lives and property.
