TRANSPORT OPERATORS JOIN FORCES WITH CENTRE TO STEM FLOW OF WEAPONS
Read Time:2 Minute, 29 Second
By: Fasasi Hammad
The South-South Zonal Office of the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (NCCSALW) has stepped up efforts to combat the spread of illegal firearms by deepening collaboration with transport unions in Calabar.
At a sensitisation programme held on Wednesday, commercial drivers and union leaders were encouraged to partner with the Centre to prevent the movement of illicit arms through transport networks, as part of broader efforts to improve public safety and community security.
Addressing participants, the South-South Zonal Coordinator, Dr. Alex Inemah Ebimiebo, described transport operators as key stakeholders in the fight against insecurity, noting that the engagement aimed to boost awareness and strengthen operational cooperation.
“Transporters play a vital role in curbing the movement of illegal weapons,” he said.
Ebimiebo explained that the Centre was established on May 3, 2021, under Article 24 of the ECOWAS Convention on Small Arms and Light Weapons. It operates under the Office of the National Security Adviser, with its headquarters in Abuja and six zonal offices nationwide, including the South-South office in Calabar.
He highlighted the widespread availability of small arms as a major factor driving insecurity globally, stating that crimes such as terrorism, armed robbery, and communal violence are often fueled by easy access to firearms.
Describing arms proliferation as a global menace, he noted that many countries are implementing targeted measures to restrict illegal weapons and reduce violence.
While educating attendees on illicit firearms, Ebimiebo identified weapons such as AK-47 rifles, pump-action guns, pistols, and locally made arms, stressing that any weapon not acquired through authorised channels is unlawful. He added that firearm possession in Nigeria requires proper police licensing, and ammunition also poses significant risks in the proliferation chain.
He warned transport operators to be cautious of suspicious packages or passengers offering inducements to bypass luggage inspections.
READ MORE:
TRIAL OF BAUCHI FINANCE COMMISSIONER PUT ON HOLD INDEFINITELY
“Anyone who discourages you from inspecting luggage or offers extra payment should raise red flags. Refuse such inducements and safeguard yourself and the public,” he cautioned.
Zonal Legal Adviser, Barrister Endurance Asim-Ita, also warned of the legal consequences of transporting passengers found with illegal arms, noting that both drivers and vehicle owners could face prosecution. She stressed that ignorance of the law is not a defence.
She further advised transport companies to adopt strict compliance measures, including mandatory luggage checks and enforceable security policies, to avoid unintentionally facilitating criminal activities.
Representatives of transport firms, including Mr. Ikechi Emmanuel of Cross Lines Company Limited, praised the initiative. He noted that registered companies typically have structured screening systems in place, while unregistered operators present greater security risks due to weak oversight.
Officials from Akwa Ibom Transport Company and the Unified Transport Union in Calabar also shared experiences and suggested practical steps to enhance collaboration between transporters, security agencies, and regulators in preventing the trafficking of illegal arms across the region.
Happy
0 %
Sad
0 %
Excited
0 %
Sleepy
0 %
Angry
0 %
Surprise
0 %
0
0