Court Hears Firearm License Revocation Suit against FG Sept. 30

Agency Report/

Justice Ijeoma Ojukwu of the Federal High Court, in Abuja, today fixed September 30 for hearing in an application restraining the presidency from revoking firearm licences of Nigerians.

The motion for the interlocutory injunction was filed by the Board of Incorporated Trustees of Malcolm Foundation.

President Muhammadu Buhari recently signed into law with executive powers to remove, revoke, and banish all firearm or shotgun certificate or license in Nigeria

This executive order started June 1.

Justice Ojukwu said that after careful consideration of the averments of the plaintiff, she found them to be weighty and in relation to the public interest.

She, therefore, said the defendant should be put on notice in order to show cause why the relief sought by the plaintiff should not be entertained.

Chief Malcolm Omirhobo, a constitutional lawyer and the plaintiff, in his adumbration, told the court that the Nigerian constitution provided for the inalienable right for self-defence.

The lawyer said that Nigerians with firearm licences were responsible citizens who were law-abiding, and the revocation of their licences would automatically violate their right to self-defence.

He added that the withdrawal of firearms from responsible citizens shall leave them vulnerable to incessant attacks from foreign elements purportedly assailing the country.

Omirhobo maintained that though the firearms act has given the president the power to withdraw licences, the constitution has also given individuals the right to life and self-defence.

He said in a situation where there were not enough police with guns, what shall happen to self-defence if guns are withdrawn.

He also said it was dangerous for the executive to revoke the firearm licences, considering the reality of the security situation in the country.

The lawyer moved the motion after telling the court that the motion was supported by 73 paragraph affidavit with nine exhibits.

“We have Certificate of Compliance dated May 24 and a written address in support of the application and wish to adopt the averments alongside the exhibits,’’ he said.

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