The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has directed all officers and men of the Nigeria Police Force to desist from unauthorised social media activities capable of undermining the integrity, professionalism, and public image of the Force.
The directive was contained in a statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Anietie Okokon Edem Iniedu, amid growing concerns over the increasing trend of police personnel creating and publishing videos, conducting live sessions, and engaging in other social media activities while in uniform or in situations that identify them as members of the Nigeria Police Force without official authorisation.
According to the statement, the IGP noted that while social media remains an important platform for communication and public engagement, its use by serving officers must strictly comply with extant laws, regulations, and the Nigeria Police Force Social Media Policy.
He stressed that officers are prohibited from creating or sharing unauthorised content in police uniform, commenting publicly on official police matters, disclosing sensitive operational information, or using their status as police officers for personal promotion, entertainment, or commercial gain.
To ensure compliance, the Inspector-General directed Commissioners of Police, Heads of Departments, Commanders, and other supervisory officers to immediately sensitise personnel under their commands and enforce strict adherence to the directive.
The statement further warned that supervisory officers would be held accountable for any failure to take appropriate action against personnel found violating the directive within their areas of responsibility.
In addition, the IGP ordered the Force Intelligence Department (FID) and the Professional Standards Department (X-Squad) to intensify monitoring of social media platforms to identify officers engaging in activities inconsistent with the professional standards and ethics of the Nigeria Police Force.
The police chief reaffirmed the Force’s commitment to discipline, professionalism, and responsible public communication, assuring Nigerians of the Force’s continued dedication to maintaining public trust, accountability, and institutional integrity.
The latest directive is expected to curb the growing trend of police officers using social media platforms for unauthorised content creation and reinforce compliance with established regulations governing the conduct of personnel online.
