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 a gross misrepresentation of his remarks.
In a statement issued on Saturday by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, the police said the report, which has circulated widely on social media, took the IGP’s comments out of context and misled the public.
According to the Force spokesperson, the IGP did not issue any “shoot-on-sight” directive during the stakeholders’ meeting held in Makurdi, Benue State.
“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,” the statement read.
The police explained that the IGP used the meeting to remind officers that only legally authorised security personnel are permitted to carry firearms.
The statement added that Disu also highlighted the increasing proliferation of illegal weapons, noting that such firearms are frequently used by criminals involved in kidnapping, armed robbery, banditry, cult-related violence, and other serious offences.
According to the Force, the IGP further reminded officers that the use of firearms is strictly regulated by Force Order 237, which outlines the circumstances under which police officers may lawfully use firearms while performing their official duties.
“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 statement added.
Reaffirming its commitment to professionalism and respect for human rights, the Nigeria Police Force said officers are expected to carry out their responsibilities in line with the Constitution and other applicable laws.
“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 statement said.
The Force also urged journalists and members of the public to verify information before publishing or sharing security-related reports, warning that inaccurate reports could create unnecessary panic and erode public confidence in security institutions.
“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 statement noted.
The police reiterated that the Force remains committed to safeguarding lives and property while enforcing the law fairly, professionally, and within the limits prescribed by law.
