By Our Reporter
CP Bode Ojajuni, Commissioner of Police, Ogun State Command, has commended the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (NCCSALW) for organizing a seminar on effective post-judgment management of small arms and light weapons, describing the initiative as timely and critical to addressing security challenges.
Ojajuni made the remarks while participating in the one-day seminar held in Abeokuta, where he stressed the need for improved coordination in handling recovered arms after judicial proceedings.
According to the police chief, the proliferation of illicit small arms and light weapons in the hands of non-state actors continues to fuel criminal activities across the country. He noted that such weapons remain the primary tools used by criminals, underscoring the importance of strategic collaboration and sustained engagement among security stakeholders.
The CP acknowledged the successes recorded by the Nigeria Police Force and other agencies in recovering illegal arms, but pointed out that many of these weapons remain in custody after court processes. He explained that such arms are often stored in armouries under exhibit keepers, a situation that requires enhanced monitoring and coordination.
Ojajuni advocated the establishment of a centralized and proactive framework for the immediate retrieval and management of recovered arms upon the conclusion of court cases. He warned that delays in mopping up such weapons could pose avoidable security risks.
The seminar, coordinated by the South-West Director of NCCSALW, Abiodun Alamutu, brought together key stakeholders including the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Nigeria Customs Service, Department of State Services, Nigeria Immigration Service, the Nigerian Military, and the Ministry of Justice.
Participants at the seminar deliberated on best practices and strategies for effective arms control, particularly in the area of post-judgment handling of recovered weapons.
The Ogun State Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to inter-agency collaboration, effective arms control measures, and the protection of lives and property across the state.
