Buhari to IGP: Shoot-on-sight order still in place — go after attackers of police stations

President Muhammadu Buhari has asked Alkali Baba, the inspector-general of police (IGP), to go after those attacking police officers and stations. 

The president spoke on Thursday at the handing over of security equipment by Babajide Sanwo-Olu, governor of Lagos, to the police command in the state.

Earlier in March, the president had directed security agencies to shoot anyone seen illegally with AK-47 rifles.

In his remarks at the event, the president said the order is still in place, and that as commander-in-chief, it is his responsibility to ensure the lives and properties of Nigerians are secured.

“I have charged the inspector-general to leave no stone unturned in rebuilding the morale of his officers and men, especially in the aftermath of the mindless violence associated with the EndSARS protests, as well as the recent spate of attacks on police stations in some parts of the country,” he said.

“A nation that turns its Police personnel and infrastructure into targets of violence and destruction is a nation on the path of self-destruction. We will act firmly and decisively against any and all persons fomenting or carrying out attacks on our Police Force and other security personnel.

“Let me also use this opportunity to reiterate that my directive to security agencies, to shoot any person or persons found illegally wielding AK-47s and other assault weapons, remains in place.

“As commander-in-chief, my primary responsibility remains the security of the country and the safety of all citizens. Despite the many challenges we are facing, I want Nigerians to rest assured that we will secure this country. We will secure our infrastructure, our highways, our communities, and our forests, and we will secure the lives of our people.”

In recent weeks, police stations and officers have come under attack, especially in the south-east part of the country.