Kogi Police, Center Collaborate to Curb Illicit Arms as Command Strengthen Security Measures Ahead of Festive Season
The Kogi State Police Command has strengthened its security framework with renewed collaboration on arms control and the rollout of comprehensive safety measures ahead of the Christmas and New Year celebrations.
On 1st December 2025, the Commissioner of Police, CP Naziru Bello Kankarofi, psc, mni, hosted the Zonal Director of the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (NCCSALW), Mr. Abdul Adamu Eneche, in Lokoja. The meeting focused on scaling up strategies to curb the proliferation of small arms and light weapons across the state.
CP Kankarofi highlighted the critical role of inter-agency partnerships and sustained public awareness in tackling illicit arms, noting that technology-driven approaches will be deployed to identify, track, and recover illegal weapons. He added that strengthening community policing remains central to reducing incidents of armed robbery, kidnapping, and other violent crimes.
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Mr. Eneche reaffirmed that NCCSALW—established in 2021 in line with the ECOWAS Convention—continues to work closely with security agencies to improve arms control nationwide. He expressed confidence that the Centre’s activities in Kogi State will significantly bolster ongoing efforts to dismantle illegal arms channels and enhance public safety.
As part of broader measures to maintain peace during the Yuletide, CP Kankarofi on 2nd December 2025 reiterated the total ban on the sale, distribution, and use of fireworks, knockouts, bangers, and all categories of pyrotechnics across the state.
He warned that individuals or groups violating the directive—whether in residences, markets, public spaces, or event centers—will be arrested and prosecuted. The ban, he explained, aims to prevent fire outbreaks, injuries, and security breaches typically associated with indiscriminate use of fireworks during festive periods.
The Police Command has intensified patrols, surveillance, and targeted operations to ensure strict enforcement. Residents, traders, and community leaders have been urged to comply fully and report any illegal fireworks activity via the Command’s emergency line: 07038329084.
Police Public Relations Officer, CSP William Ovye Aya, reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to delivering a safe and secure festive season while sustaining broader security collaborations across Kogi State.
By PRNigeria
