Police Deny IGP Issued Shoot-on-Sight Order, Fault Misleading Reports

The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has denied reports claiming that the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Disu, ordered officers to shoot anyone found in possession of illegal firearms, describing the reports as false and a distortion of his remarks.

In a statement issued on Saturday by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, the police said the IGP’s comments at the stakeholders’ security meeting in Makurdi, Benue State, had been taken out of context and misrepresented to the public.

The Force explained that at no point during the meeting did the IGP issue a “shoot-on-sight” directive, contrary to reports circulating in some sections of the media.

According to the statement, Disu had merely reminded police officers that only legally authorised security personnel are permitted to carry firearms and expressed concern over the proliferation of illegal weapons used in crimes such as kidnapping, armed robbery, banditry, cultism and other violent offences.

The police also said the IGP drew officers’ attention to the provisions of Force Order 237, which regulates the lawful use of firearms by police personnel in the discharge of their 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.

The Force reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and property while ensuring that all policing activities are carried out in accordance with the Constitution and other relevant laws.

It added that officers are expected to perform their duties professionally, responsibly and with full respect for human rights.

The police also cautioned media organisations and members of the public against publishing or sharing unverified information on security matters, warning that inaccurate reports could generate unnecessary panic, mislead the public and erode confidence in security institutions.

For clarity, the Force urged the public to watch the full video of the Inspector-General’s remarks, saying it provides the complete context of his comments and dispels claims that he authorised the indiscriminate use of lethal force.

Reaffirming its commitment to lawful policing, the Nigeria Police Force said it would continue to enforce the law fairly, professionally and within the limits prescribed by the Constitution.