Special assistant to President MUHAMMADU BUHARI on media and publicity, GARBA SHEHU has denied reports that some states have been granted approval to buy sophisticated weapons for their security outfits.

GARBA SHEHU said this in a statement, while reacting to claims made by Ondo state Governor ROTIMI AKEREDOLU who had alleged that the Federal Government allowed a security outfit in Katsina State to carry high-assault arms.

GARBA SHEHU added that under the existing regulations, only the Office of the National Security Adviser can issue such approvals to states, after clearance by the President and Commander-in-Chief.

The Presidential spokesman said that in the case of Katsina State, the Governor, AMINU BELLO MASARI had invited the Provost of the Civil Defence Training College in Katsina to train their Vigilantes for a five-day period ‘in the handling and operations of Pump Action Rifles’.

GARBA SHEHU, however said that the President appreciates the active involvement of states in security matters, as they continue to expand their capabilities as well as their active collaboration with law enforcement agencies of the federation.