The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has directed police officers across Nigeria to shoot on sight anyone found carrying illegal firearms. The aggressive new mandate is part of renewed, hardline federal efforts to combat the country’s escalating security crises and disarm criminal elements operating across various states.

During a stakeholders` meeting in Makurdi, Benue State, IGP Disu declared an end to passive policing, aligning with President Tinubu`s directive to tackle rising insecurity and stop bloodletting. Disu asserted that the monopoly on force lies with the state, warning that unauthorized possession of assault weapons will no longer be tolerated, emphasizing that only authorized personnel should bear arms.

To ensure immediate compliance, officers are empowered under Force Order 237 to use lethal force against armed threats without waiting for bureaucratic approval. Disu justified this approach by citing the unsustainable loss of security personnel to heavily armed bandits and criminals, stating that officers are trained to act decisively.

While adopting a tough stance, the IGP urged community collaboration and intelligence sharing to identify criminal hideouts. This directive is driven by the severe, ongoing violence in Benue State, which has caused mass displacement and destruction. Consequently, the Federal Government is pivoting toward using increased kinetic force to restore stability.