IGP Disu Bans Unauthorised Social Media Activities by Police Officer
Inspector-General orders strict compliance, directs X-Squad to monitor platforms.
Tunji-Disu Police IGP
The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has ordered all Nigeria Police Force personnel to immediately stop unauthorised social media activities that could damage the reputation and professionalism of the Force.
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The directive, issued from Force Headquarters in Abuja on Monday, targets the growing trend of officers recording and posting videos, hosting live sessions, and engaging in online activities while in uniform or in ways that identify them as members of the Force, all without official clearance.
Disu acknowledged that social media remains a legitimate tool for public engagement, but stressed that its use by serving officers must align with existing laws and the Nigeria Police Force Social Media Policy.
Under the directive, officers are barred from creating or sharing unauthorised content in police uniform, making public comments on official police matters, disclosing sensitive operational information, or leveraging their status as officers for personal promotion, entertainment, or commercial gain.
Commissioners of Police, Heads of Departments, and other supervisory officers have been instructed to immediately sensitise personnel under their command and enforce full compliance. Supervisory officers who fail to act on violations within their jurisdiction will be held personally accountable.
The IGP also directed the Force Intelligence Department and the Professional Standards Department, known as the X-Squad, to intensify monitoring of social media platforms and identify officers whose online conduct falls short of professional standards.
The Force said the directive reaffirms its commitment to discipline and responsible public communication.