The Nigeria Police Force has warned the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), a group agitating for the Republic of Biafra, the Igbo nation not to dare it.
The police made specific reference to a recent publication credited to the Indigenous People of Biafra ‘to carry guns in self defence’ and sternly warned members of the IPOB to reconsider their stand or face the wrath of the extant laws on bearing of firearms.
A statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olabisi Kolawole quoted the Inspector-General of Police, Solomon Arase as further warning that anybody who dares security agencies in the discharge of their constitutional responsibilities, and make life difficult for law abiding citizens, will face dare consequences of their actions.
The police boss cautioned the IPOB members to follow appropriate avenues in ventilating their grievances as anybody who steps out of bounds will be decisively dealt with.
“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.”
The statement said that all Zonal Assistant Inspectors General and State Commands’ Commissioners of Police have been directed to strictly enforce the laws against the use of illegal firearms across the length and breadth of the country.
It said that 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.” [myad]
