IGP warns Biafra agitators, IPOB against use of firearms

By Kingsley Omonobi

Abuja - Following media reports credited to
members of the Independent Peoples of Biafra
(IPOB), threatening to carry arms in self defence
against the Nigerian nation, Inspector General of
Police, Solomon Arase has warned pro-Biafra
agitators to reconsider their stand on bearing of
arms or face the wrath of the extant laws
concerning firearms.
Arase also warned that anybody who dares
security agencies in the discharge of their
constitutional responsibilities, and make life
difficult for law abiding citizens, will face dare
consequences of their actions.
In a statement signed by the Force Public
Relations Officer, ACP Olabisi Kolawole, the IGP
further cautioned “the IPOB members to follow
appropriate avenues in ventilating their
grievances as anybody who steps out of bounds
will be decisively dealt with.
Consequently, the IGP has directed all Zonal
AIGs and State Commands CPs to strictly
enforce the laws against the use of illegal
firearms across the length and breadth of the
country.
The statement reads, “The attention of the
Nigeria Police Force has been drawn to a
publication credited to the Indigenous People of
Biafra ‘to carry guns in self defence’.
“The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Solomon
E. Arase, has sternly warned members of the
IPOB to reconsider their stand or face the wrath
of the extant laws on bearing of firearms.
“Members of the group should therefore note
that it is an offence punishable under the
criminal Law of the Federation of Nigeria for a
person to have in his possession or under his
control any prohibited firearms without licence or
permit.
“The IPOB are advised to be guided in respect
of the above as the Police Force is poised to
uphold the existing restriction over the use of
firearms.
“Meanwhile, all Zonal AIGs and State Commands
CPs have been directed to strictly enforce the
laws against the use of illegal firearms across
the length and breadth of the country.
“The Inspector-General of Police has assured
that the Nigeria Police Force, complemented by
other security agencies in the country, will
tirelessly and assiduously work towards
eliminating any threat to internal security and
social disorder.
“He has reassured Nigerians of his commitment
to their safety and security.