IGP Orders Comprehensive Audit of Arms and Ammunition Nationwide
The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Tunji Disu, has directed all Commissioners of Police (CPs) to conduct an immediate and thorough audit of arms and ammunition within their commands. The directive was issued on Tuesday, May 5, in Abuja during an emergency conference with CPs from state commands.
This order follows the recent incident in Delta State where ASP Nuhu Usman fatally shot a suspect. The police chief emphasized that the audit must be transparent, well-documented, and detailed reports must be forwarded to Force Headquarters.
The IGP stated that the objective is to strengthen accountability, identify existing gaps, and provide an accurate assessment of the force's operational needs. He stressed that this exercise is not a routine administrative task but a critical measure to enhance readiness and prevent misuse of weapons.
Disu added that the audit will ensure all assets entrusted to the force are properly accounted for and optimally deployed. He also highlighted the force's achievements in reforming its operational structure, including the reconstitution of state-level anti-crime capacity.
The IGP announced that the Special Weapons and Tactics units have been reorganized and elevated into a new formation called the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU). He clarified that this is not a rebranding exercise but a fundamental shift in how serious crime is approached in Nigeria.
Every officer assigned to the VCRU has undergone intensive specialized training in tactical operations, human rights compliance, intelligence analysis, and rules of engagement. These are professional officers trained to modern standards. Civilian oversight has been built into the VCRU's operational framework from the outset.
The unit will operate strictly on credible intelligence, and personnel will not be deployed on speculation or arbitrary command. CPs will be responsible for the discipline, conduct, and results of the VCRU in their respective commands, as the unit carries the authority of the CPs.
Disu directed all CPs to formally launch their state VCRU with full visibility, involving community stakeholders, traditional and religious leaders, and the press. Nigerians should know that this unit exists, what it stands for, and how to hold it accountable.
