TheCable

Solomon Arase, inspector-general of police (IGP), has warned members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) against bearing firearms, saying that they will face dire consequences .

The police gave this warning on Thursday in a statement issued by Bisi Kolawole, spokesperson of the police.

“The attention of the Nigeria police force has been drawn to a publication credited to the Indigenous People of Biafra ‘to carry guns in self-defence’, and the inspector-general of police, IGP Solomon Arase, has sternly warned members of the IPOB to reconsider their stand or face the wrath of the extant laws on bearing of firearms,” the statement said.

“The IGP warns that anybody who dares security agencies in the discharge of their constitutional responsibilities, and makes life difficult for law-abiding citizens, will face dire consequences of their actions.

“He cautions the IPOB members to follow appropriate avenues in ventilating their grievances as anybody who steps out of bounds will be decisively dealt with.

“Members of the group should therefore note that it is an offence punishable under the criminal Law of the federation of Nigeria for a person to have in his possession or under his control any prohibited firearms without licence or permit.”

The statement warned IPOB that the police would uphold the existing restriction over the use of firearms. It also directed all zonal AIGs and state commands CPs to strictly enforce the laws against the use of illegal firearms across the length and breadth of the country.

“The inspector-general of police has assured that the Nigeria police force, complemented by other security agencies in the country, will tirelessly and assiduously work towards eliminating any threat to internal security and social disorder.

“He has reassured Nigerians of his commitment to their safety and security.”