The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has debunked widespread reports claiming that the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Disu, directed officers to shoot anyone found in possession of illegal firearms, describing the reports as false, misleading and a complete misrepresentation of the IGP’s remarks.
In a statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, the Police clarified that the Inspector-General never gave any “shoot-on-sight” directive during a recent stakeholders’ meeting held in Makurdi, Benue State.
According to the statement, the viral reports distorted the context of the IGP’s comments. Rather than ordering officers to use lethal force, the Police chief reiterated that only duly authorised security personnel are legally permitted to carry firearms in Nigeria.
The IGP also expressed concern over the increasing proliferation of illegal firearms across the country, noting that the trend continues to fuel serious crimes such as kidnapping, armed robbery, banditry, cultism and other violent criminal activities.
The Nigeria Police Force further explained that the use of firearms by police officers remains strictly regulated under Force Order 237, which clearly outlines the legal circumstances under which lethal force may be applied. It stressed that the Inspector-General never instructed officers to shoot individuals merely because they were found in possession of illegal weapons.
Reaffirming its commitment to professionalism, the rule of law and the protection of fundamental human rights, the Police assured Nigerians that all security operations would continue to be conducted in accordance with the Constitution and other established legal frameworks.
The Force also appealed to journalists, media organisations and members of the public to verify security-related information before publishing or sharing it. It warned that the spread of false or misleading reports could create unnecessary panic, misinform citizens and erode public trust in the nation’s security institutions.
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The Nigeria Police Force reiterated its commitment to transparency, responsible policing and public accountability while urging citizens to rely on verified information from official sources.
