Security expert questions decision to revoke all firearm licences

Security consultant Richard Kumadoe has criticised the government's decision to revoke all existing firearm licences, arguing that the measure could unfairly affect law-abiding gun owners and create uncertainty over firearms regulation.

His comments follow an announcement by Interior Minister Muntaka Mohammed Mubarak that all firearm licence holders would be required to reapply under a new licensing framework aimed at strengthening gun control.

The proposed reforms include mandatory mental health and drug screening for applicants as part of efforts to improve oversight and reduce the risk of gun-related violence.

Speaking to Citi News on Wednesday, Mr Kumadoe questioned the rationale behind cancelling all licences rather than addressing specific compliance concerns within the current system.

"Are we saying that if people are not driving properly on the road, we get up and revoke every driver's licence in the country?" he asked.

He argued that the move could undermine confidence among firearm owners who had complied with previous government initiatives encouraging citizens to register and regularise their weapons.

According to Mr Kumadoe, many gun owners had obtained licences through official processes in response to past amnesty and registration campaigns.

"When we went through the gun amnesty campaign, people were told they could keep their guns provided they registered and regularised them. Some people received their licences only recently, and now all of them have been revoked," he said.

He also expressed concern about the lack of clarity surrounding the implementation of the new policy, particularly for individuals who legally possess registered firearms.

Mr Kumadoe warned that without clear guidance, licensed gun owners could face uncertainty about their legal status while waiting to reapply under the new system.

"People have guns in their homes and have registered them. Now their licences have been revoked and there is no clear instruction on what they should do next," he said.

He added that the absence of detailed timelines and implementation procedures could create challenges for both firearm owners and law enforcement agencies.

The Interior Ministry has defended the reforms, saying the new licensing regime is intended to strengthen oversight of firearm ownership through stricter screening and monitoring measures.

Authorities say the changes form part of broader efforts to enhance public safety and reduce the threat posed by the misuse of firearms.