The Nigeria Police Force has dismissed as false and misleading reports alleging that the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Rilwan Disu, ordered officers to shoot anyone found with illegal firearms, insisting that his comments at a recent security stakeholders’ meeting were taken out of context.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, said the IGP never issued a “shoot-on-sight” directive during the meeting held in Makurdi, Benue State, contrary to claims circulating in sections of the media and on social media.
According to the police, the Inspector-General merely reminded officers that only duly authorised security personnel are legally permitted to carry firearms and urged them to strictly enforce existing laws against the proliferation of illegal weapons.
“The Nigeria Police Force has noticed a misleading report claiming that the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, ordered police officers to ‘shoot anyone with illegal firearms.’ This claim is false and does not reflect what the Inspector-General said,” Iniedu stated.
The Force explained that the IGP’s remarks focused on the growing threat posed by the proliferation of illegal firearms, which are frequently used by criminal elements involved in kidnapping, armed robbery, banditry, cult-related violence and other serious offences.
The police spokesman further clarified that the IGP reminded officers that the use of firearms by police personnel is governed by Force Order 237, which clearly outlines the circumstances under which an officer may lawfully discharge a firearm while performing 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 said.
Reaffirming its commitment to professionalism and respect for human rights, the Nigeria Police Force said officers are expected to discharge their responsibilities in strict compliance with the Constitution, extant laws and established operational guidelines.
“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,” Iniedu added.
The Force also cautioned media organisations and members of the public against disseminating unverified information on security matters, warning that inaccurate reports could create unnecessary panic, mislead the public and erode confidence in security institutions.
To dispel any misunderstanding, the police encouraged Nigerians to watch the full video of the Inspector-General’s address, noting that it provides the proper context of his remarks.
“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,” the statement noted.
The Police reiterated their commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the country while enforcing the law fairly, professionally and within the bounds of the law.
