By Tunji Braimoh, Abuja

The Nigeria Police Force has refuted reports alleging that the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, directed officers to shoot individuals found in possession of illegal firearms, describing the claim as inaccurate and a misrepresentation of his remarks.

In a statement issued on Friday, the Force said comments made by the police chief during a stakeholders’ meeting in Makurdi, Benue State, had been taken out of context and wrongly interpreted as a “shoot-on-sight” directive.

According to the police, the Inspector-General did not at any point order officers to summarily execute persons carrying unauthorised weapons. Rather, he emphasised the need for strict enforcement of laws regulating the possession and use of firearms in the country.

The Force explained that the IGP’s remarks focused on the increasing proliferation of illegal arms and the threat such weapons pose to national security. He noted that criminal elements frequently deploy illicit firearms in carrying out acts of kidnapping, armed robbery, banditry, cult-related violence and other violent crimes.

The statement further stressed that only security personnel and other individuals duly authorised under the law are permitted to bear firearms, adding that law enforcement agencies must remain vigilant in tackling the circulation of illegal weapons.

The police also reiterated that the use of firearms by officers is regulated by Force Order 237, which provides clear guidelines on the circumstances under which lethal force may be lawfully applied in the discharge of official duties.

The Inspector-General, the statement noted, reminded officers of their obligation to operate within the confines of the law and adhere strictly to established rules governing the use of force.

The Force maintained that the police chief’s comments were intended to reinforce professionalism, accountability and lawful policing, rather than encourage extrajudicial actions.

It urged members of the public and media organisations to verify information before publication and avoid spreading reports capable of creating unnecessary panic or misunderstanding.

The Nigeria Police Force reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property while ensuring that all policing operations are conducted in accordance with the Constitution, existing laws and internationally accepted standards of human rights.