The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has directed police officers across Nigeria to shoot anyone found carrying illegal firearms, describing the move as part of intensified efforts to combat insecurity.
The directive was issued on Friday during a stakeholders’ meeting held at the Government House in Makurdi, the Benue State capital.
According to the police chief, the decision followed President Bola Tinubu’s instruction that the worsening security situation in Benue State must be brought under control.
Disu stated that only duly authorised security personnel are legally permitted to carry firearms, adding that law enforcement officers must no longer adopt a passive approach when confronting armed threats.
He explained that officers have been empowered under Force Order 237 to respond immediately to dangerous situations involving armed individuals without seeking prior approval from superior officers.
The Inspector-General noted that security agencies have suffered significant losses in recent years and stressed that officers have received the necessary training to respond appropriately when faced with armed criminals.
He also appealed to members of the public to support security agencies by providing timely and credible intelligence, describing community cooperation as vital to addressing violent crime.
Benue State has experienced repeated attacks by armed groups in recent months, leading to deaths, displacement of residents, and widespread destruction of property. In response, the Federal Government has continued to deploy additional security personnel while adopting tougher security measures aimed at restoring peace.
Human rights concerns emerge
The Inspector-General’s directive has generated mixed reactions, with many Nigerians debating its potential impact on public safety and human rights.
Supporters believe the measure could strengthen the fight against armed robbery, kidnapping, banditry, terrorism, and other violent crimes by discouraging criminals from carrying illegal weapons.
However, human rights advocates have expressed concern that the directive could be abused if not implemented with clear operational guidelines and effective oversight. They warn that wrongful identification or excessive use of force could result in unlawful killings and violations of citizens’ constitutional rights.
According to rights groups, both Nigerian law and international human rights standards permit the use of lethal force only when it is absolutely necessary to protect lives and when no reasonable alternative exists. They also maintain that every individual, including those suspected of possessing illegal firearms, is entitled to due process under the law.
Security experts say the challenge will be ensuring that officers enforce the directive professionally, responsibly, and within the limits of the law while maintaining public confidence in the police.
