The Nigeria Police Force has dismissed reports alleging that the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Disu, directed officers to shoot anyone found in possession of illegal firearms, describing the claim as false and a distortion of his remarks.
The clarification was contained in a statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, who said the report circulating on social media had misrepresented the Inspector-General’s comments during a stakeholders’ meeting in Makurdi, Benue State.
According to the Force Headquarters, the IGP never authorised or announced a “shoot-on-sight” policy and urged the public to disregard reports suggesting otherwise.
The statement read: “The Nigeria Police Force has noticed a misleading report claiming that the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Disu, ordered police officers to ‘shoot anyone with illegal firearms.’ This claim is false and does not reflect what the Inspector-General said.
“During the stakeholders’ meeting held in Makurdi, Benue State, the Inspector-General did not give any ‘shoot-on-sight’ order. His comments have been taken out of context and wrongly presented to the public.
“In his address, the IGP reminded officers that only security personnel who are legally authorised are allowed to carry firearms. He also spoke about the growing problem of illegal weapons, which are often used by criminals to carry out kidnapping, armed robbery, banditry, cult violence, and other serious crimes.
“The Inspector-General further reminded police officers that the use of firearms is guided by Force Order 237, which clearly states when an officer may lawfully use a firearm while carrying out official duties. He stressed that officers must always act within the law and follow the approved rules for the use of force. At no time did he instruct officers to shoot anyone simply because they were found with an illegal firearm.
“The Nigeria Police Force remains committed to protecting the lives and rights of all Nigerians. The Force will continue to carry out its duties with professionalism, respect for the law, and respect for human rights. Officers are expected to perform their duties responsibly and in line with the Constitution and other relevant laws.
“The Force therefore advises members of the public and media organisations to verify information before publishing or sharing it. Misleading reports on security matters can create unnecessary fear, confuse the public, and damage trust in security institutions.
“For clarity, the Nigeria Police Force encourages members of the public to watch the attached video of the Inspector-General’s complete remarks. The video clearly shows what he said and puts his comments in the proper context.
“The Nigeria Police Force remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of all Nigerians and will continue to enforce the law fairly, professionally, and within the limits of the law.”
The police explained that the Inspector-General’s remarks were intended to remind officers of the legal framework governing the possession and use of firearms in Nigeria, particularly the provisions of Force Order 237, which outlines the circumstances under which officers may lawfully discharge their weapons.
The Force also emphasised that the IGP’s comments focused on the increasing threat posed by illegally possessed firearms, noting that such weapons are frequently used in the commission of serious crimes, including kidnapping, armed robbery, banditry and cult-related violence.
Reaffirming its commitment to constitutional policing, the Nigeria Police Force said its personnel remain bound by established operational procedures and human rights standards in carrying out their duties, while urging journalists and members of the public to verify security-related information before circulating or publishing it.
(Ripples)