The IGP emphasized that the directive aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s urgent call to resolve the persistent security challenges plaguing Benue State. Disu stated that only authorized law enforcement personnel have the legal right to bear arms, and he warned that unlawful possession of weapons would no longer be tolerated.
"You cannot roam the streets armed as if there is no law. This behavior will not be accepted," Disu asserted, underscoring the need for stringent enforcement of firearm regulations.
The directive is supported by Force Order 237, which empowers police officers to act without waiting for instructions from superiors when faced with armed threats. "Our officers are trained to respond to immediate threats. They know how to use their firearms appropriately," he explained.
Disu's announcement comes in response to rising casualties among security personnel, highlighting the urgent need for a decisive approach to combat armed violence. “We are exhausted from losing our officers and other security agents,” he lamented, reinforcing the seriousness of the situation.
The IGP also called upon community members to assist law enforcement by providing timely and reliable intelligence, noting that cooperation from the public is essential in the fight against armed criminality.
Benue State has recently faced a wave of violence attributed to armed groups, resulting in numerous fatalities, displacements of residents, and extensive property damage. The federal government has responded by deploying additional security personnel and implementing tougher measures to restore peace in the region.
As part of this enhanced security strategy, Disu urged residents to remain vigilant and proactive in reporting suspicious activities. “Your involvement is crucial; we cannot succeed without your support,” he emphasized.
The police chief's directive has sparked debate among legal and human rights advocates, who question the implications of such a shoot-on-sight policy. Critics argue that it could lead to excessive use of force and violations of civil rights.
In light of these concerns, the Inspector-General reaffirmed the importance of accountability among law enforcement officers, stating that while they have been given the authority to act decisively, they must do so within the bounds of the law.
As the situation in Benue continues to develop, the effectiveness and repercussions of this directive will likely be closely monitored by both the public and human rights organizations.
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