The National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (NCCSALW) has raised alarm over incessant rise in the possession of illegal arms and light weapons in Nigeria.
The Zonal Coordinator of the centre in Maiduguri, retired Rear Adm. Abdulrahman Mohammed (rtd), raised the concern in a statement signed by the Assistant Director Operations of the centre, ACP Saleh Samaila.
”It has been observed recently that some unscrupulous and unauthorised outfits have emerged, deceitfully presenting themselves as the focal organisations for the control of illicit small arms and light weapons, creating false impressions of legitimacy and authority of the national centre.
“The action of these unauthorised bodies have the propensity to further compound the already complex task of small arms and light weapons control.
“It may potentially result in confusion and lack of credibility leading to administrative and legal disputes which may hinder the centre to effectively carry out its mandate,” Mohammed said.
He reminded all stakeholders and partners on the need to operate within legal boundaries, adding that the centre remains the only government body charged with the responsibility to checkmate proliferation of small arms.
The zonal coordinator also urged the media as an important partner in the campaign against Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) proliferation, to be vigilant and avoid the projection of such unlawful outfits.
The centre was established on 3rd May, 2021 by an Executive directive by former President Muhammadu Buhari in line with the Article 24 of ECOWAS Convention on Small Arms and Light Weapons.
Member states agreed to take to counter the proliferation of small arms and light weapons? In this convention, ECOWAS member states agree to control, regulate and/or prohibit the transfer, manufacture and possession of small arms and light weapons.
They also agree to take measures to promote transparency, cooperation and exchange of information among member states.
ECOWAS member states consider the proliferation of small arms and light weapons to constitute a major threat to peace and stability within ECOWAS member states.
They are deeply concerned at the flow of small arms and light weapons into West Africa and recognise the need to control arms transfers.
They recognise the need to prevent, combat and eradicate the illicit manufacture, excessive accumulation, trafficking, detention and use of small arms and light weapons.
In light of this, and recognising the principles and obligations contained in previous agreements, member states agree to the articles contained in this convention.
Member states alo agree to ban the transfer of small arms and light weapons into, from or through their territory.
