An International Action Network on Small Arms (IANSA) Nigeria, whose mission is advocating against Proliferation of Small Arms and Light Weapons across nations and boarder communities, has decorated the former FCT Commissioner of Police, Barrister Lawrence Alobi (rtd), as its National Grand Patron.

Speaking during the investiture, the Director of the Association, Comrade Jephtah Asimole, on Friday in Abuja, admitted that IANSA Nigeria is an internationally recognised NGO under the supervision of the United Nations, saddled with the responsibility to eradicate the menace of gun violence globally.

Asimole lamented that economic activities in some part of the country have been crippled to the barest minimum due to misuse of guns by some irate youths sponsored by enemies of Nigeria with illegal acquisition of sophisticated arms and ammunition.

He added that the organisation came into existence to help cushion the effects of illicit gun trade, proliferation of small arms and the use of light weapons illegally in Nigeria.

Concluding, Asimole maintained that the nomination was not a surprise but was as a result of the quintessential, astute and humble nature of the recipient.

Alobi, while appreciating the organisation for the nomination, admitted that the proliferation of arms in Nigeria and globally has become a serious threat which exacerbate insecurity and threat to the democracy of any nation.

"This also brings about electoral violence during elections. Violence is inimical to the development of any nation and if we continue to carry out this advocacy and change people's mind against use of arms, this country will be a better place to live in.

"This advocacy will make people imbibe the culture of peace and conflict resolution. The society must also know that the arms they carry illegally is a threat to themselves and society. Government should come to assist this and we must see changes."

•Photo shows the Director of IANSA, Comrade Jephtah Asimole, in a handshake with the Grand Patron of the Association and Former FCT Commissioner of Police, Barrister Lawrence Alobi, in his office, while the Director of Programmes, Mr. Martin Igwe looks on.

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