The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has dismissed reports claiming that the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Disu, ordered officers to shoot anyone found carrying illegal firearms, describing the reports as false and misleading.
In a statement issued on Saturday by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, the police said the viral reports circulating on social media misrepresented the IGP’s remarks made during a stakeholders’ meeting in Makurdi, Benue State.
According to the statement, the IGP never issued a “shoot-on-sight” directive, stressing that his comments had been taken out of context.
The police explained that during the meeting, Disu reminded officers that only duly authorized security personnel are legally permitted to carry firearms. He also expressed concern over the increasing circulation of illegal weapons, noting that they are frequently used by criminals involved in kidnapping, armed robbery, banditry, cult-related violence, and other serious crimes.
The statement further noted that the IGP reiterated that the use of firearms by police officers is governed by Force Order 237, which clearly outlines the circumstances under which officers may lawfully use firearms while performing their duties.
He emphasized that officers must always operate within the law and strictly adhere to established rules governing the use of force. At no point, the police said, did the IGP instruct officers to shoot individuals simply because they were found in possession of illegal firearms.
The Force reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the lives and rights of all Nigerians, stressing that officers are expected to carry out their duties professionally, lawfully, and with full respect for human rights and the Constitution.
The police also urged members of the public and media organizations to verify information before publishing or sharing it, warning that inaccurate reports on security issues could create unnecessary panic, misinform the public, and erode confidence in security institutions.
To provide clarity, the Force encouraged Nigerians to watch the full video of the IGP’s remarks, saying it accurately reflects the context of his statements.
The Nigeria Police Force reiterated its commitment to maintaining public safety while enforcing the law fairly, professionally, and within the limits of the law.
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