The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has dismissed widespread reports claiming that the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Disu, ordered officers to adopt a “shoot-on-sight” policy against individuals found with illegal firearms, describing the reports as inaccurate and taken out of context.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Aniete Iniedu, clarified that the IGP made no such directive during a stakeholders’ security meeting held in Makurdi, Benue State.
According to the police, Disu’s remarks focused on the lawful regulation of firearms and the growing threat posed by illegal weapons, which are frequently used by criminal groups involved in kidnapping, armed robbery, banditry, cult violence, and other violent crimes.
The Force explained that the IGP reminded officers that only duly authorized security personnel are legally permitted to carry firearms and stressed that the use of force by police officers remains strictly governed by Force Order 237 and other relevant legal provisions.
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“The Inspector-General emphasized that officers must always operate within the confines of the law and adhere to established rules governing the use of force while carrying out their official responsibilities,” the statement said.
The police further clarified that at no point did the IGP instruct officers to shoot anyone merely because they were found in possession of an illegal firearm.
Reaffirming the Force’s commitment to constitutional policing, the statement noted that the Nigeria Police Force remains dedicated to protecting the lives, rights, and property of all Nigerians while ensuring that officers discharge their duties professionally and with full respect for human rights.
“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,” the statement read.
It added that police personnel are expected to perform their responsibilities responsibly and in accordance with the Constitution and all applicable laws.
The Force also urged media organizations and members of the public to verify information before publishing or sharing reports on security matters, warning that inaccurate reports could create unnecessary public fear, spread confusion, and erode confidence in security institutions.
To provide clarity, the police encouraged Nigerians to watch the complete video of the Inspector-General’s remarks, saying the footage accurately reflects the context of his comments and dispels claims that he issued a “shoot-on-sight” order.
The statement concluded by reiterating the Force’s commitment to enforcing the law fairly, professionally, and within the limits prescribed by the Constitution and other applicable laws.