Ribadu Denies Involvement in Illegal Arms Importation

DIG Johnson Kokumo, the Director-General of the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (NCCSALW), addressed a viral video alleging that National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu was behind illegal arms importation. Speaking in Abuja on September 1, Kokumo labeled the claims as false and inciting violence against Ribadu.

He confirmed his presence at the Tin Can Island Port when 399 assorted automatic weapons were intercepted and handed over to the NCCSALW on August 17, 2026. Two suspects are currently in custody as investigations continue.

Kokumo also reported that on July 30, 2026, the NCCSALW conducted the Second Quarter Arms Destruction Exercise, destroying 1,419 illicit weapons, bringing the total destroyed since 2022 to over 19,000. He reiterated the government's commitment to combating illegal weapons while acknowledging the role of local arms manufacturers.