Dire Consequences Await Anyone That Uses Firearms – Igp Warns Biafra Agitators
SAN FRANCISCO, February 18, (THEWILL) – The Inspector General of Police, IGP Solomon Arase on Thursday warned members of the Indigenous Peoples of Biafra, IPOB, against bearing of arms, stressing that anyone caught will be made to face the wrath of the extant laws concerning firearms.
Arase, who spoke in response to threats by the secessionist group that its members will start bearing weapons as a way of defending themselves against the brutality of security operatives, warned that anybody who dares security agencies in the discharge of their constitutional responsibilities, and make life difficult for law abiding citizens, will face dire consequences of their actions.
Sounding this warning in a statement signed by the Force Public Relations Officer, FPRO Olabisi Kolawole, the IGP further advised “the IPOB members to follow appropriate avenues in ventilating their grievances as anybody who steps out of bounds will be decisively dealt with.
He consequently directed all Zonal Assistant Inspectors-General and Commissioners of Police in various state commands to strictly enforce the laws against the use of illegal firearms across the length and breadth of the country.
According to the statement, “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,” the FPRO disclosed.