By Adebola Isimijola, Lagos

The Commissioner of Police, Ogun State Command, Bode Ojajuni, has called for the establishment of a centralised framework for the management of recovered small arms and light weapons after the conclusion of court cases, warning that delays in handling such weapons could pose security risks.

Ojajuni made the call in Abeokuta during a seminar organised by the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons, describing the initiative as timely amid rising security concerns linked to illicit arms proliferation.

“The proliferation of illicit small arms and light weapons in the hands of non-state actors continues to fuel criminality,” he said, noting that the weapons remain “the primary tools used by criminals.”

The police chief noted that although security agencies, particularly the Nigeria Police Force, have recorded successes in recovering illegal arms, many of such weapons remain in custody after judicial proceedings.

He explained that the arms are often stored in armouries under exhibit keepers across agencies, a situation he said requires better coordination and monitoring.

Ojajuni therefore advocated a proactive mechanism for the immediate retrieval of recovered weapons once legal processes are concluded.

“There is a need for a coordinated system that ensures prompt mop-up of arms from all relevant units after court proceedings, as delays could create avoidable security threats,” he said.

The seminar, coordinated by retired Commissioner of Police Abiodun Alamutu, drew participation from key security and government agencies, including the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Nigeria Customs Service, Department of State Services, Nigeria Immigration Service, the military, and the Ministry of Justice.

Participants deliberated on strategies to strengthen arms control and improve post-judgment management processes.

Ojajuni commended the centre for the initiative and reaffirmed the command’s commitment to inter-agency collaboration and the protection of lives and property.