The Inspector General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has ordered police officers to shoot-on-sight anyone found carrying illegal firearms in Benue State.

Disu issued the directive on Friday at a stakeholders’ meeting in Makurdi attended by Governor Hyacinth Alia, traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth groups, and farmers.

Citing Force Order 237, the IGP empowered officers to act without superior approval against persons illegally bearing arms, which he said are fueling violence that has displaced thousands in the state.

“The directive is clear. Only authorized personnel are permitted to carry arms. Anyone found with illegal firearms will be dealt with decisively,” Disu said.

The order comes on the heels of President Bola Tinubu’s renewed push to end insecurity in Benue. The IGP also urged locals to report suspicious activities to security agencies.

Reactions to the directive have been mixed, with some commending the tough stance, while others raised concerns about possible abuse and how officers will verify illegal weapons.