The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has requested that the Senate conduct its investigation into the reported missing of 3,907 firearms behind closed-doors, citing security concerns.
In a letter addressed to the Senate and read by Senate President Godswill Akpabio during Senate plenary on Thursday, Egbetokun expressed his appreciation for the Senate’s efforts in conducting a “thorough investigation” into the missing firearms, which were allegedly unaccounted for as of December 2020.
“We appreciate the Senate committee’s probe into the alleged missing firearms and urge that future hearings on sensitive security matters be conducted in camera. This will prevent the creation of a wrong impression in the minds of Nigerians and the international community,” the letter stated.
The IGP emphasised that holding the hearings behind closed-doors would help curb misinformation, protect national security interests, and enable a more candid discussion and fact-finding process.
Egbetokun reaffirmed his commitment to maintaining a strong partnership with the National Assembly, working collaboratively to enhance security and improve the lives of Nigerians.
Responding to the letter, Senate President Akpabio confirmed that the IGP’s request was clear.
He assured that investigations would be conducted both internally by the Police and externally by the Senate to ensure accountability.