The Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, has ordered an immediate and comprehensive audit of arms and ammunition across all state police commands in Nigeria, in a decisive move aimed at strengthening accountability and preventing the misuse of operational weapons.
The directive comes in the wake of widespread public outrage triggered by a disturbing viral video showing police officers shooting a restrained and handcuffed suspect at close range. The incident, which has sparked intense criticism from civil society groups and the general public, has raised serious concerns about the conduct of some officers and the handling of firearms within the force.
In response to the incident, the Nigeria Police Force took swift disciplinary action against those involved. Four officers, led by Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Nuhu Usman, have been dismissed from service. Authorities confirmed that their case files have also been forwarded to the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation for prosecution, signaling a commitment to ensuring justice and reinforcing the principle that no officer is above the law.
Speaking during a high-level meeting with senior police officers in Abuja on Tuesday, the IGP emphasized the urgent need for transparency and strict control over police weaponry. He directed all Commissioners of Police across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory to immediately commence a detailed stocktaking of arms and ammunition within their respective commands.
According to Disu, the audit must be conducted in a thorough, transparent, and accountable manner, with accurate documentation of all firearms, ammunition, and related equipment. He further instructed that the outcome of the exercise be compiled into detailed reports and submitted to the Force Headquarters within a specified timeframe.
The police chief stressed that the initiative is not only a response to the recent incident but also part of broader institutional reforms aimed at restoring public confidence in the Nigeria Police Force. He noted that proper accountability mechanisms are essential in ensuring that operational weapons are used strictly in accordance with the law and established rules of engagement.
Security experts have described the move as a critical step toward addressing long-standing concerns about the management of arms within the force. They argue that regular audits and strict monitoring systems can help reduce cases of abuse, accidental discharge, and unauthorized use of firearms by officers.
Human rights organizations have also weighed in, calling for sustained reforms beyond the audit. While acknowledging the dismissal and planned prosecution of the implicated officers, some groups insist that systemic changes, including improved training, stricter oversight, and better welfare for officers, are necessary to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The viral video that sparked the latest reforms continues to circulate widely, drawing condemnation from both local and international observers. Many Nigerians have taken to social media to demand justice for the victim and to call for deeper reforms within the policing system.
In addressing senior officers, the IGP reiterated the importance of professionalism, discipline, and respect for human rights in policing operations. He warned that any misuse of firearms or abuse of authority would be met with strict disciplinary measures, including dismissal and criminal prosecution where necessary.
“This audit is not optional,” Disu reportedly told the officers. “It is a critical step in ensuring that every weapon in the custody of the Nigeria Police Force is properly accounted for and used responsibly.”
He further urged commanding officers to take personal responsibility for the weapons under their supervision, emphasizing that accountability must start from the top. The IGP also hinted at the possibility of introducing more advanced tracking and monitoring systems to enhance oversight of police arms nationwide.
The development marks one of the most decisive responses by the police leadership in recent times to issues surrounding misconduct and operational accountability. Observers say the success of the audit will depend largely on the transparency of the process and the willingness of authorities to act on its findings.
As the deadline for submission of reports approaches, attention will be focused on how effectively the various state commands implement the directive. Many Nigerians hope that the exercise will not only uncover discrepancies but also lead to lasting reforms that will improve policing standards and rebuild public trust.
For now, the Nigeria Police Force faces renewed scrutiny, with the public closely watching to see whether the promised reforms will translate into meaningful change on the ground.
