Nigeria Police Reaffirms Ban on Firearms Licences Amid Rising Insecurity
By Kolawole Ojebisi
Police Maintains Stance Against Private Gun Ownership
The Nigeria Police Force has reiterated its ban on firearms licenses for private individuals, despite growing calls for self-defence measures across the country. This clarification comes as security challenges continue to escalate nationwide.
Force Public Relations Officer, Muyiwa Adejobi, confirmed to Sunday Punch that the suspension on firearms licensing remains in effect. “We are yet to lift the ban on issuance of firearms. The ban is still on,” Adejobi stated.
Legal Framework on Firearms Possession
The police initially suspended small arms licenses in 2023 due to concerns about illegal arms proliferation. According to the Firearms Act of 2024:
- Only the President or Inspector General of Police can authorize firearms licenses
- Unauthorized possession carries a minimum 10-year prison sentence
- Offenders may face ₦20,000 fines or both penalties
Growing Calls for Self-Defence Measures
The police statement follows increasing demands from citizens and public figures for legal self-defence options amid rising insecurity. Former Defence Minister Lt. Gen. Theophilus Danjuma (retd) recently urged Nigerians to defend themselves against violent attacks.
“The threat will continue until we rise and defend ourselves,” Danjuma stated during an April event in Taraba State. “It is quite clear the government alone cannot do it.”
The retired general referenced recent kidnapping incidents and the government’s apparent inability to guarantee citizen safety as justification for his position.
Security Crisis Sparks National Debate
This development comes against the backdrop of:
- Persistent attacks in Benue and Plateau States
- Nationwide kidnapping epidemics
- Growing public frustration with security agencies’ effectiveness
The police reaffirmation suggests the government maintains its opposition to private gun ownership despite these security challenges.
Credit: New Diplomat