Police Warn: Gun Ownership in Nigeria is Illegal

The Nigerian Police Force has strongly condemned the illegal practice of backdating firearm licenses by individuals within the country. This warning follows the police’s August 2023 decision to halt the issuance of licenses for small arms, a measure taken in response to the alarming rise in illegal arms proliferation.

Speaking on Thursday at a joint briefing organized by the Office of the National Security Adviser, the Force’s spokesperson, Muyiwa Adejobi, reiterated that backdated firearm licenses are fraudulent and emphasized the legal consequences of possessing firearms under current regulations.

Adejobi stated, “For those working around the clock to smuggle arms into Nigeria, it is a criminal offense. Any prohibited arms found in your possession can land you in prison. Attempting to obtain or possess these arms is illegal, and we strongly discourage it. The use of firearms and ammunition in Nigeria is presently banned.”

He further advised that anyone seeking to legally acquire firearms must wait until the government lifts the ban. “Certain individuals may attempt to deceive you by offering backdated firearm licenses, but these are fake. Do not be misled by dubious arms dealers,” he warned.

Adejobi stressed that the police would intensify efforts to clamp down on illegal firearm ownership, urging Nigerians to avoid becoming entangled in criminal activity. “Owning firearms illegally is an offense punishable under the law, and we will pursue those who violate this.”

In a separate matter, Adejobi also addressed the ongoing search for suspects allegedly involved in an attempt to overthrow the president. He confirmed that British national Andrew Wynne and Nigerian Lucky Obiyan remain wanted for subversive activities aimed at destabilizing the democratically elected government.

The police, in collaboration with the Nigeria Immigration Service, are currently verifying Wynne’s immigration status. “Whether he is a legal immigrant or not, Wynne and Obiyan are still wanted for charges of subversion and attempting to overthrow the government by force,” Adejobi said.

He also reiterated the police’s stance against foreign interference in Nigeria’s internal affairs, particularly in cases of terrorism and the financing of criminal activities. “We will not sit idly by while foreigners sponsor and promote unrest in Nigeria. These actions are capital offenses, and we are committed to bringing those responsible to justice.”

Adejobi concluded by reaffirming the police’s dedication to safeguarding Nigeria’s security and sovereignty.