The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Disu, has directed police officers across Nigeria to shoot anyone found unlawfully carrying firearms, describing the measure as part of intensified efforts to tackle insecurity, particularly in Benue State.
According to a report by The Punch published on Friday, July 24, 2026, the directive was issued during a high-level stakeholders’ meeting held at the Government House in Makurdi, the Benue State capital. The IGP said the order forms part of broader measures aimed at ending the persistent violence affecting the state and restoring lasting peace.
Speaking at the meeting, Disu declared that the era of passive policing had come to an end, emphasizing that security agencies must take a more proactive approach in confronting armed criminality and protecting lives.
He explained that the directive aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s instruction to security agencies to bring an end to the violent conflict in Benue State and ensure that peace is restored in communities that have experienced repeated attacks.
The police chief stressed that only duly authorized security personnel are legally permitted to carry firearms in Nigeria. He warned that anyone found displaying or carrying weapons without legal authorization would face immediate action from law enforcement officers.
“You can’t just stroll around armed as if the country doesn’t have any laws. No one will put up with this,” Disu said while addressing stakeholders.
The IGP stated that police officers have been empowered to respond decisively to armed threats without first seeking approval from superior officers. According to him, this authority is provided under Force Order 237, enabling officers to act promptly when confronted with situations involving illegal firearms or threats to public safety.
He noted that the directive is intended to ensure a swift operational response whenever officers encounter individuals unlawfully carrying weapons, particularly in areas affected by violent crime and insecurity.
Disu also addressed concerns about the safety of security personnel, saying the force could no longer tolerate the continued loss of officers in the line of duty. He emphasized that police officers, members of the military, and other security operatives have paid a heavy price in the fight against armed groups and criminal networks.
“We know where to aim our weapons. We’re tired of losing our men. No matter what, we’re tired of the deaths of security personnel, including police, military, and others,” he said.
The IGP maintained that protecting the lives of security personnel remains a priority and that officers must be able to defend themselves and the public when confronted by armed individuals operating outside the law.
Despite emphasizing the readiness of security agencies to take firm action, Disu said public cooperation remains essential to achieving lasting security. He urged residents to work closely with law enforcement by providing timely and credible intelligence that could help identify criminal elements operating within their communities.
According to him, actionable information from members of the public would enable security agencies to track down armed groups, prevent attacks, and apprehend those responsible for acts of violence.
He appealed to residents of Benue State and other affected communities to remain vigilant and support ongoing security operations by reporting suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities.
Disu noted that intelligence supplied by local communities often plays a critical role in disrupting criminal activities before they escalate into violent incidents. He said stronger collaboration between security agencies and the public would improve efforts to combat kidnapping, banditry, and other forms of violent crime.
The meeting in Makurdi formed part of wider consultations with key stakeholders on strategies to address the security challenges confronting Benue State, which has witnessed recurring violence in recent years.
During the discussions, the IGP reiterated the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to restoring law and order while ensuring that officers are adequately empowered to respond to threats within the framework of existing laws and operational guidelines.
He emphasized that the directive against individuals carrying illegal firearms is intended to deter criminal activity and reinforce the government’s determination to address insecurity across the country.
Disu also underscored the importance of maintaining a coordinated approach among security agencies, government officials, and local communities to achieve sustainable peace in Benue State and other parts of Nigeria affected by violence.
The directive comes amid ongoing efforts by security authorities to curb attacks by armed groups and improve public safety through stronger enforcement measures and enhanced intelligence gathering.
According to The Punch, the IGP’s remarks reflect the Federal Government’s broader push to strengthen security operations in Benue State following President Tinubu’s directive to restore peace and end the cycle of violence in the region.
As security agencies intensify operations, Disu urged officers to remain professional while carrying out their duties and called on citizens to support law enforcement efforts by providing credible information that could assist in identifying and apprehending criminal groups operating in affected communities.
