Kwara Lawmakers Seek Tougher Action on Proliferation of Small Arms

 

Lawmakers in the Kwara State House of Assembly have called on the state government to strengthen collaborations with security agencies to tackle the rising circulation of small arms and light weapons, which they say is fueling criminal activities across the state.

During plenary on Wednesday, Speaker Yakubu Danladi Salihu presided over discussions, where a motion was moved by Hon. Saba Yisa Gideon (Edu) and seconded by Hon. Maryam Yusuf (Ilorin South).

The motion emphasized the urgent need for government intervention to curb the spread of illegal firearms, particularly in rural areas.

Hon. Saba expressed deep concern over the increasing cases of armed robbery, particularly motorcycle snatching and the theft of personal valuables at gunpoint.

He noted that criminals, emboldened by easy access to small arms, continue to terrorize communities, leaving residents in fear and law enforcement struggling to keep up.

“The presence of illegal firearms in the wrong hands has turned once-peaceful communities into danger zones,” Hon. Saba said.

“We need a well-coordinated effort between the government and security agencies to dismantle the networks that allow these weapons to circulate freely.”

Several lawmakers, including Hon. Magaji Oba Abdulkadir (Ilorin Central), Hon. David Sehun Oguniyi (Ojomu/Balogun), and Hon. Ganiyu Folabi Salahu (Omupo), echoed similar concerns, urging for a more proactive approach in tackling arms proliferation.

Following the debate, the House passed resolutions urging Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq to:

Direct the Special Adviser on Security to work with traditional rulers, security agencies, and local vigilante groups to form a task force targeting illegal arms possession.

Collaborate with local government chairmen, transport operators, and community leaders to establish whistleblower protection mechanisms for reporting arms traffickers.

Enforce stricter penalties for arms-related crimes through the Ministry of Justice.

Launch public awareness campaigns in local languages to educate citizens on the dangers and legal consequences of possessing illegal firearms.

The session also saw visits from students and lecturers of the University of Ilorin and Children’s Affairs Learning Academy, who observed the proceedings from the gallery.

The House adjourned after the motion for adjournment was moved by Hon. Magaji Oba Abdulkadir and seconded by Hon. Saba Yisa Gideon.

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