The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has dismissed reports alleging that Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Disu directed officers to shoot individuals found in possession of illegal firearms, describing the viral claim as false and a distortion of the IGP’s actual remarks.
In a statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, the police said the report circulating on social media misrepresented comments made by the Inspector-General during a stakeholders’ meeting held in Makurdi, Benue State.
According to the Force Headquarters, the Inspector-General never issued a “shoot-on-sight” directive against individuals carrying illegal firearms. The police explained that portions of the IGP’s address were taken out of context and presented in a misleading manner, creating a false impression about the position of the Force.
The statement stressed that the comments made during the meeting focused on lawful firearm possession and the responsibilities of security personnel, not indiscriminate use of force.
The police clarified that the Inspector-General reminded officers that only security personnel legally authorised under Nigerian law are permitted to carry firearms in the course of their duties. He also highlighted the growing threat posed by the proliferation of illegal weapons, noting that such firearms are frequently used in the commission of crimes including kidnapping, armed robbery, banditry, cult-related violence and other serious offences.
According to the Force, the IGP’s remarks were intended to reinforce existing security measures aimed at addressing violent crime rather than authorising unlawful use of force.
The statement further explained that the Inspector-General reminded officers that the discharge of firearms remains strictly regulated under Force Order 237, which outlines the circumstances under which police personnel may lawfully use firearms while performing official duties.
The police emphasised that officers are expected to operate within the limits of the Constitution, established policing procedures and other applicable laws governing the use of force. It reiterated that at no point did the IGP instruct officers to shoot individuals solely because they were found carrying illegal firearms.
The Nigeria Police Force reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives, respecting human rights and carrying out its constitutional responsibilities professionally. According to the statement, police personnel are expected to discharge their duties responsibly while adhering to legal standards governing law enforcement operations across the country.
The Force also advised members of the public and media organisations to verify security-related information before publishing or sharing it. It warned that inaccurate reports on sensitive security matters could create unnecessary panic, misinform citizens and undermine public confidence in security institutions.
To provide clarity, the police encouraged Nigerians to watch the complete video of the Inspector-General’s address, stating that the full recording accurately reflects his comments and places them in their proper context. The Force maintained that the viral IGP shoot-on-sight claim does not represent the Inspector-General’s position and urged the public to rely on verified information from official sources.
