By Tgnews
The alarming number of unaccounted firearms within the Nigeria Police Force has sparked widespread concern and outrage, with many calling for transparency and accountability in the handling of the crisis. According to Salihu Garba-Mama Aliyu, the disappearance of 178,459 firearms, including 88,078 AK-47 rifles, as of December 2018, is a significant contributor to the country’s escalating insecurity.
“The Auditor-General’s 2019 report highlighted the alarming number of missing firearms, which has serious implications for Nigeria’s national security. The report revealed that the Nigeria Police Force had failed to account for a significant number of firearms, including AK-47 rifles, pistols, and other weapons. This level of negligence not only fuels insecurity but also raises serious questions about accountability within law enforcement.
“The recent response from the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, disputing these findings and requesting closed-door investigations, has only added to the concerns about transparency and accountability. The Inspector General’s response has been criticized by many, who argue that it is essential to have an open and transparent investigation into the missing firearms.
The disappearance of such a vast arsenal not only undermines the capacity of our law enforcement agencies but also potentially arms those who threaten our peace and security
“The disappearance of such a vast arsenal not only undermines the capacity of our law enforcement agencies but also potentially arms those who threaten our peace and security. The missing firearms could have fallen into the hands of criminal groups, including Boko Haram, bandits, and kidnappers, who could use them to perpetrate violence and insecurity.
“The implications of this crisis are far-reaching and have significant consequences for Nigeria’s national security. The country is already grappling with a myriad of security challenges, including insurgency, banditry, and kidnappings. The disappearance of a large number of firearms could exacerbate these challenges and make it more difficult for law enforcement agencies to maintain law and order.
Citizens are demanding comprehensive and transparent investigations into the missing firearms
“To address this crisis, citizens are demanding comprehensive and transparent investigations into the missing firearms. An independent panel should be established to trace these missing firearms, determine how they vanished, and identify those responsible. The findings of such investigations must be made public to restore trust in our law enforcement agencies.
“Furthermore, reforms in arms management are essential to prevent such losses from recurring. The Nigeria Police Force must implement robust systems and protocols to monitor and secure police armouries, ensuring that firearms are properly accounted for and stored. Accountability measures must also be put in place to hold those found culpable accountable, irrespective of their rank or position, to serve as a deterrent against future misconduct.
“The National Security Transparency Advisory Group (NS-TAG) in Canada has also highlighted the importance of transparency in national security, noting that it is essential for democratic accountability and public awareness. Similarly, the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) has emphasized the need for transparency in military matters, including defence policies, military spending, and military capability.
By working together, we can ensure that Nigeria is a safer and more secure country for all its citizens
In conclusion Salihu urges Citizens to demand transparency and accountability in the handling of this crisis, and the government must take concrete steps to prevent such losses from recurring. By working together, we can ensure that Nigeria is a safer and more secure country for all its citizens.
As Salihu Garba-Mama Aliyu aptly put it, “Our nation’s security is a collective responsibility. By raising our voices, sharing this message, and engaging in constructive dialogues, we can compel our leaders to take the necessary actions. Let us stand united, demanding the safety and security we rightfully deserve. If we really care, share this or similar messages across all platforms. Discuss it within your communities. Together, we can effect change. We have no other country to call home but Nigeria.”
The citizens are demanding for the following:
- Comprehensive and Transparent Investigations: An independent panel should be established to trace these missing firearms, determine how they vanished, and identify those responsible.
- Public Disclosure: Findings from such investigations must be made public to restore trust in our law enforcement agencies.
- Reforms in Arms Management: Implement robust systems and protocols to monitor and secure police armouries, ensuring such losses do not recur.
- Accountability Measures: Hold those found culpable accountable, irrespective of their rank or position, to serve as a deterrent against future misconduct.
“It is time for Nigeria to take a stand and demand transparency and accountability in the handling of its national security. The country’s security is a collective responsibility, and it requires the efforts of all citizens to ensure that Nigeria is a safer and more secure country for all its citizens.”
