In a decisive move aimed at restoring public confidence and tightening internal controls, the Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, has ordered an immediate and comprehensive audit of arms and ammunition across all commands of the Nigeria Police Force.
The directive comes in the wake of a disturbing viral video that sparked outrage across the country, showing uniformed officers discharging firearms at a restrained and handcuffed man following the discovery of a suspicious package. The footage, widely circulated on social media, ignited a wave of condemnation from civil society groups, legal experts, and ordinary citizens, many of whom questioned the professionalism and accountability within the force.
Responding swiftly to the backlash, the police hierarchy announced the dismissal of four officers implicated in the incident. The team, led by Assistant Superintendent of Police Nuhu Usman, was found to have violated operational protocols and rules of engagement. Their dismissal marked a rare but significant step in holding personnel accountable for misconduct.
More notably, the case file has been forwarded to the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation for further legal action, signaling the possibility of criminal prosecution beyond internal disciplinary measures.
At a high-level meeting with senior officers in Abuja on Tuesday, Disu did not mince words. According to sources present, the police chief expressed deep concern over the reputational damage caused by the incident and emphasized the urgent need for systemic reforms.
“This is not just about one incident,” Disu reportedly told the gathering. “It is about the integrity of the institution and the trust Nigerians place in us. We must ensure that every firearm issued is accounted for and used strictly within the confines of the law.”
The nationwide audit, as outlined in his directive, is expected to be rigorous and transparent.
Commissioners of Police in all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory have been tasked with conducting a detailed stocktaking of weapons and ammunition under their jurisdictions. Each command must document the quantity, condition, and assigned personnel for every operational asset, with findings to be submitted to Force Headquarters within a specified timeframe.
Insiders say the audit will also involve cross-verification processes and may include unannounced inspections to prevent falsification of records. The exercise is being viewed as one of the most extensive internal reviews of police armories in recent years.
Public reaction to the announcement has been mixed but largely hopeful. While many Nigerians welcomed the move as long overdue, others remain skeptical, citing past reform efforts that failed to produce lasting change.
Human rights advocates have also weighed in, urging the police leadership to go beyond audits and address deeper issues such as training, rules of engagement, and the culture of impunity.
“This audit is a step in the right direction,” said a Lagos-based legal analyst. “But accountability must be consistent. It should not take a viral video for action to be taken.”
Within the force, the directive has reportedly triggered a flurry of activity, with commands scrambling to ensure compliance. Some officers, speaking anonymously, described the order as both necessary and challenging, particularly in areas where record-keeping systems are outdated or poorly maintained.
Nevertheless, the message from the top appears clear: a new era of scrutiny and responsibility is being enforced.
As the audit unfolds, many will be watching closely to see whether this initiative marks a genuine turning point for the Nigeria Police Force, or simply another response to public outrage that fades with time.
For now, the spotlight remains firmly on the institution, as it attempts to reconcile its mandate of public safety with the urgent need for reform and accountability.
