IGP Disu Cracks Down On Unauthorised Social Media Use By Police Officers

The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has launched a crackdown on unauthorised social media activities by police personnel, directing all officers and men of the Nigeria Police Force to strictly adhere to the Force’s social media policy.

The directive, announced on Tuesday, follows growing concerns over the increasing trend of officers creating and sharing videos, conducting live sessions, and engaging in other social media activities while in uniform or in circumstances that identify them as members of the Nigeria Police Force without official authorisation.

In a statement signed by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Anietie Okokon Edem Iniedu, the IGP stressed that while social media remains an important platform for communication and public engagement, its use by serving officers must comply with existing laws, regulations, and established police guidelines.

He warned that officers are prohibited from creating or sharing unauthorised content while in 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, Commissioners of Police, Heads of Departments, Commanders, and other supervisory officers have been directed to immediately sensitise personnel under their commands and enforce the directive. Supervisory officers will be held accountable for any failure to address violations within their respective areas of responsibility.

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The IGP also tasked the Force Intelligence Department (FID) and the Professional Standards Department (X-Squad) with strengthening surveillance of social media platforms to identify officers whose online activities fall short of the professional standards expected of members of the Force.

Reaffirming the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to discipline, professionalism and responsible public communication, the IGP assured Nigerians that the new measures are aimed at preserving public trust and protecting the integrity of the institution.