ALLOWING CITIZENS TO BEAR ARMS WILL WORSEN INSECURITY-IGP

The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has opposed calls for Nigerians to bear arms to tackle insecurity, warning that it would escalate violence and deepen insecurity. 

The IGP stated this at the second Nigeria democracy week organized by the National Democracy Stakeholders Group (NDSG), in partnership with the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, in Abuja, where he was represented by FCT Commissioner of Police Ajao Adewale, emphasizing that widespread civilian access to firearms is not the solution to Nigeria's complex security challenges.

Egbetokun stressed that violence cannot be solved through violence, advocating instead for peace, dialogue, tolerance, and accommodation. He drew lessons from countries that have allowed civilians to bear arms, questioning the effectiveness of such approaches. The IGP also clarified the police role in elections, stating they are limited to providing security and ensuring peaceful conduct, not partisanship.

The SGF, represented by Nadungu Gagare, highlighted President Bola Tinubu's administration reforms, aimed at long-term national stability and inclusive economic growth. The administration has introduced bold structural reforms in key sectors, synchronizing policies and aligning them with national development priorities. 

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