Senator representing Edo North, Adams Oshiomhole, has expressed support for the use of decisive force against armed criminals, endorsing a shoot-on-sight approach for individuals engaged in violent crimes while carrying illegal weapons.

The former Edo State governor made his position known while reacting to the recent directive by Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Disu aimed at strengthening the fight against insecurity across the country.

Oshiomhole Defends Firm Security Measures

Oshiomhole argued that law-abiding citizens have nothing to fear from stricter security measures, insisting that individuals who roam communities with illegal firearms while committing crimes should expect a forceful response from security agencies.

According to the senator, the priority of government must be the protection of innocent Nigerians rather than the convenience of armed criminals. He maintained that security personnel should not hesitate to confront bandits, kidnappers and other violent offenders whenever they pose an immediate threat to lives and property.

Lawmaker Says Criminals Must Face Consequences

The senator stressed that Nigeria’s worsening insecurity requires stronger enforcement measures, noting that criminal groups have continued to terrorise communities through kidnappings, killings and attacks on villages.

He said those who choose to carry illegal firearms and engage in violent criminal activities should be prepared to face the consequences of their actions, adding that the country cannot afford to appear weak in its response to insecurity.

Remarks Follow IGP’s Security Directive

Oshiomhole’s comments come after Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Disu addressed security stakeholders in Makurdi, Benue State, where he urged officers to take firm action against people unlawfully carrying firearms as part of efforts to tackle rising insecurity.

The police chief said only authorised security personnel are legally permitted to bear arms and reminded officers that Force Order 237 provides the legal framework governing the use of firearms when responding to armed threats.

Police Clarify Interpretation of IGP’s Remarks

Following widespread reports suggesting that the Inspector-General had issued a blanket shoot-on-sight order, the Nigeria Police Force issued a clarification.

The Force explained that the IGP did not direct officers to indiscriminately shoot anyone found with firearms. Rather, it said he was referring to existing provisions under Force Order 237, which outlines the legal circumstances under which police officers may use firearms in line with established rules of engagement.

Despite the clarification, Oshiomhole maintained that security agencies must be empowered to confront heavily armed criminals decisively, arguing that protecting innocent citizens should remain the overriding objective of law enforcement efforts.