The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Disu, has cautioned against the recording and circulation of police-related video content, warning specifically against filming officers on duty for content creation purposes.
The IGP also expressed concern over what he described as the misuse of police-related content, noting that such practices could undermine officers’ morale, distort public perception, and negatively affect ongoing security operations across the country.
He made the call during an interactive session with members of the Crime Correspondents Association of Nigeria (CCAN) in Abuja.
Disu reaffirmed the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to accountability, transparency, professionalism and respect for human rights, but stressed the need to balance public scrutiny with operational realities and the welfare of officers working in high-risk environments.
According to him, police personnel continue to make significant sacrifices in the discharge of their constitutional duties and deserve public understanding and support.
“Yes, accountability is important, and we remain committed to transparency. However, recordings and public engagements involving police officers must be done responsibly and should not be used to harass officers or undermine operational effectiveness,” he said.
He cautioned against the growing trend of indiscriminate recording of officers during routine and sensitive operations, warning that such behaviour could further affect morale amid rising security challenges nationwide.
“Police officers operate under extremely challenging conditions, often risking their lives to protect citizens and maintain public safety. It is important that public conduct and media coverage do not discourage officers who are committed to doing the right thing,” he added.
The IGP also raised concerns over the circulation of old or misleading videos falsely presented as recent incidents, warning that such content fuels misinformation, public panic and unnecessary tension within communities.
Earlier, chairman of the Crime Correspondents Association of Nigeria, Festus Fifen, reaffirmed the commitment of crime correspondents to responsible journalism and national security support.
“We are no longer just reporting violence; we are part of a system working towards building a safer society,” he said.
Fifen called for improved collaboration between the police and the media, particularly in ensuring timely access to credible information during security incidents to curb misinformation and speculation.
He assured the police leadership that crime correspondents remain committed partners in promoting peace, security and national development.
