NANS Southwest Backs IGP's Crackdown on Illegal Firearms, Calls for Professional and Rights-Based Enforcement

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Southwest Zone D, has expressed strong support for the directive issued by the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) targeting the unlawful possession and circulation of firearms across Nigeria.

In a statement signed by the Coordinator of NANS Southwest Zone D, Comrade Adeyemo Josiah Kayode (BILLIONCODES), the association described the directive as a timely response to Nigeria's worsening security challenges, including terrorism, kidnapping, armed robbery, cult-related violence, and other criminal activities driven by the proliferation of illegal weapons.

According to the statement, individuals without valid licences or lawful authorization have no legitimate basis for carrying firearms, making decisive enforcement necessary to safeguard innocent citizens and strengthen national security.

Security Must Go Hand-in-Hand With Justice

While applauding the Inspector-General's initiative, NANS stressed that enforcement must remain professional, constitutional, and accountable.

The association warned that suspected possession of an illegal firearm should never become automatic justification for unlawful killings or excessive use of force.

"Where suspects can be safely arrested and prosecuted, that option should always take precedence. Every use of lethal force must remain subject to established legal procedures and independent accountability mechanisms," the statement noted.

Call for Operational Guidelines

NANS Southwest further urged the Nigeria Police Force to provide clear operational guidelines capable of preventing wrongful arrests, mistaken identity, or violations of the rights of licensed firearm holders and legitimate security personnel.

The association also encouraged citizens to cooperate with law enforcement agencies by reporting suspicious movements and illegal weapons while avoiding any attempt to personally confront armed criminals.

The statement concluded that effective policing requires firmness, professionalism, intelligence-led operations, and strict adherence to the rule of law.