BIAFRA: IGP Cautions IPOB Over Illegal Firearms

Solomon Arase, IGP

INSPECTOR General of Police, Solomon Arase last week warned the members of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB over possession of illegal firearms while going about their protests and agitation stating that while the fundamental human rights enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution permits individuals freedom of expressions, the same law also places limitation to it.

The IGP issued the warning on account of the threats reportedly issued by the group that it will use firearms during its operations for self-defense towards fighting for its goal.

In view of the development, the Police boss has issued directives to all the zonal Assistant Inspectors General of Police (AIGs), as well as state Police Commissioners to strictly enforce the laws against illegal use of firearms in the country.

In a statement signed by Force Public Relations Officer, Bisi Kolawole, the Inspector General advise IPOB to channel whatever the grievances to the appropriate quarters rather than taking laws in to the hands as the security agency statutorily vested with the duty to safeguard lives and properties in the society will not sit to watch them or any other groups create chaos or havocs in the society.

“Members of these groups should 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 license or permit.   

“Anybody who dares security agencies in the discharge of their constitutional responsibilities and make life difficult for law-abiding citizens will face dire consequences of their actions,” Arase said.

Meanwhile, former Chairman of Police Service Commission, (PSC), Chief Simon Nsobundu reportedly stated that anybody or group who shoots or kills members of the group or the Movement of the Actualisation  of the Sovereign State of Biafra in the course of agitation for the project should be termed and treated as a murderer.     

However, he moved against the clamour for the cessation as clamoured by the two groups stating that the problem confronting the geopolitical zone is not about declaration of a sovereignty rather inequality, and therefore advised that the efforts should be geared towards restoring equity in the polity especially such that could attract federal government presence in the South-East geopolitical zone. Nevertheless, he called for the immediate release of Mr. Nnamdi Kanu from the DSS custody.