No Nigerian Is Allowed To Be In Possession Of Firearms Even For Personal Protection — Police Declares After Arresting Man With AK-47 To Protect Himself After Being Kidnapped Twice

The Nigeria Police Force has reaffirmed that no Nigerian is permitted to possess firearms, even for personal protection, following the arrest of a man found in possession of an AK-47.

The suspect, identified as Alhaji Tanko, reportedly obtained the weapon after surviving two separate kidnapping incidents. He claimed he needed the firearm to protect himself from potential future attacks.

 Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Muyiwa Adejobi while parading emphasized that Nigerian law prohibits civilians from owning prohibited firearms like AK-47s, assault rifles, or pistols for self-defense, classifying it as a criminal offense.

‘’At the time of his arrest, Alaji Tanko Yuguda was found in possession of an AK-47 rifle and 16 rounds of live ammunition, authorities confirmed. The weapon was reportedly obtained from an individual identified as Yayafi, who remains at large.

 “We are closing in on Yayafi, and we are calling on him to assist in this investigation, to tell us how he got this rifle, which was sold to Tanko Yuguda.

‘’When asked why he possessed such a high-powered firearm, the suspect claimed it was for personal protection. The authorities, however, emphasized that ownership of prohibited firearms is illegal.

READ ALSO: Police Arrest Chief Priest, Community Leaders In Ozoro, Delta Over “Rape Festival’’ Planning

“I always say, I don’t think anybody is allowed in this country to be in possession of prohibited firearms for personal protection,” the spokesperson said. “You are not talking anyhow firearm here, we are talking about an AK-47 rifle. No matter how highly placed or wealthy you are, certain arms—particularly assault rifles and pistols—are prohibited. You are not to possess them.”

Tanko, who hails from Shimankar, revealed that he purchased the rifle from Yayafi. “I was kidnapped twice,” he said, explaining that this was his reason for acquiring the weapon.