IGP: Shoot-on-sight controversy rages on
The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, addressed the issue of firearm usage by police officers during a stakeholders’ meeting held in Makurdi, Benue State. His comments were later reported by various media outlets as a shoot-on-sight directive aimed at individuals carrying illegal firearms.
In response, the Nigeria Police Force issued a clarification regarding the shoot-on-sight directive, stating that the IGP referenced Force Order 237, which outlines the legal and operational parameters for the use of firearms by police personnel.
According to PUNCH Online, the complete transcript of the police chief’s remarks during the meeting was based on a video shared by the NPF on X on Saturday. Disu stated, “..the crisis, what that means is to fight a war that is older, richer, safer, that is designed by people who are older than us. And most of the time when this crisis happens, they walk away with it. They walk away without being scratched.
“Everyone of you who have picked up a weapon, you have become a target. We are tired of this issue of attack and retaliation. When we attack, we expect retaliation.
“We are tired of it. And that is why I have come here today to meet with you, to discuss with you, to bring a message from you, from the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, that this will no longer be tolerated. This will not be tolerated.” He stated.
