*warns states govts on arming militia, vigilante
The Nation's no 1 Supercop, IGP Ibrahim Kpotun Idris stated yesterday that some arrest have been made on the gruesome murder of passengers who were Fulani in Gboko.
Idris made this known on Thursday during the monthly meeting with CPs at force headquarters, Abuja.
"We had an attack on some travellers in Gboko town, in Benue State where seven fulani people were murdered.
"Seven of them were travelling from Taraba to Kogi State, they stopped in Gboko and the youths there, seeing that they were fulani, pounced on them, killed and roasted them.
"We are investigating that issue now. Our monitoring team have been dispatched to Benue and some arrest have been made in that regard," he added.
The IGP also warned state commissioners to be on alert and ensures that state government do not arm militias and vigilante groups as we approach electioneering year.
He said: "Everybody is aware we are entering a tedious and serious period in this country. The political issues are coming up to the fore and I believe as officers, we must gear up in our various locations and responsibilities to ensure that we ensure law and order all over Nigeria.
"As police officers, we know our duties. We know some issues that must be considered very seriously because we are coming into a political arena.
"Commands should be very conversant with arming of militia men or vigilante because before a vigilante group is established by a government, there must be a bylaw which must be passed by the House of Assembly.
"It is the responsibility of the Commissioners of Police in charge of Commands to study the bylaw and see how it conforms with the constitution and other laws of this country but where through the connivance of some Police officers, you have a command arming militia men under several leus, I think our officers have to brace up to face these challenges.
He also said: "No state government in this country has the responsibility to approve some prohibited firearms to any Nigerian under any guise.
"I think it is the responsibility of CPs of Commands to put a close watch to the activities of some of these state governments that are arming individuals which is against the laws of this country.
"All of us are aware of these prohibited firearms, you cannot give approval for any individual to own a pistol or AK47 Rifles. These are prohibited weapons and only the government has the authority to give that approval.
"I call on CPs of various Commands to closely watch the abuse of authority at various levels", he said.
Commenting on his recent meeting with traditional rulers, the IGP said "I addressed traditional rulers recently in Port Harcourt and I think they have a lot to do to bring peace and harmony within their community.
"This country needs leaders that can unite the communities not leaders that create divisions and I think it is high time leaders answer their names and be among those that will bring peace and stability all over the country", he concluded.
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