By Peace Udugba
The Commissioner of Police, Ogun State Command, Bode Ojajuni, has called for enhanced post-judgment management of small arms and light weapons to strengthen security and reduce the risks associated with recovered weapons.
Ojajuni made the call while participating in a one-day seminar organised by the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (NCCSALW) in Abeokuta. The seminar focused on effective post-judgment management of small arms and light weapons (SALW), which the Commissioner described as timely and critical to addressing prevailing security challenges.
In his remarks, the police chief noted that the proliferation of illicit small arms in the hands of non-state actors continues to fuel criminal activities. He stressed that such weapons remain the primary tools used by criminals, underscoring the need for sustained collaboration and dialogue among stakeholders to tackle the menace.
Ojajuni further observed that while security agencies, particularly the Nigeria Police Force, have recorded significant successes in recovering illegal arms, many of these weapons remain in custody after judicial proceedings. He explained that such arms are typically stored in armouries under exhibit keepers across various agencies, a situation that requires improved coordination and monitoring.
The Commissioner therefore advocated the establishment of a proactive and centralised framework for the immediate mop-up of recovered arms once court processes are concluded. He emphasised the need for the Centre to develop mechanisms that would ensure prompt retrieval of such weapons from relevant units, warning that delays could pose avoidable security risks.
The seminar was coordinated by the South-West Director of NCCSALW, Abiodun Alamutu, and attracted key stakeholders, including the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Nigeria Customs Service, Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Immigration Service, the Nigerian military, and the Ministry of Justice. Participants deliberated on best practices and strategies for effective arms control.
Ojajuni commended the initiative of the Centre and the commitment of participating agencies, reaffirming the Ogun State Police Command’s dedication to inter-agency collaboration, effective arms control, and the protection of lives and property.
The event was held on May 2, 2026, in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
