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The Nigeria Police Force has denied reports alleging that the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun’s successor, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, ordered officers to shoot individuals found with illegal firearms, describing the claim as misleading and a misrepresentation of his remarks.
In a statement issued on Friday by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, the police said the Inspector-General did not issue any “shoot-on-sight” directive during a stakeholders’ meeting held in Makurdi, Benue State.
According to the Force, the comments attributed to the IGP were taken out of context and presented in a manner that does not reflect the substance of his address.
The police explained that while addressing stakeholders, Disu reiterated that only duly authorised security personnel are legally permitted to bear arms and expressed concern over the proliferation of illegal firearms, which he said often fuel crimes such as kidnapping, armed robbery, banditry, cult-related violence and other serious offences.
The statement added that the IGP also reminded officers that the use of firearms by police personnel is governed by Force Order 237, which outlines the circumstances under which an officer may lawfully deploy a firearm in the course of duty.
He was said to have emphasised that officers must operate within the confines of the law and strictly adhere to established rules regulating the use of force, stressing that he never directed officers to shoot anyone merely for possessing an illegal firearm.
Reaffirming its commitment to the protection of lives and fundamental rights, the Force said officers are expected to discharge their responsibilities professionally and in accordance with the Constitution and other extant laws.
The police further urged members of the public and media organisations to verify information before circulating or publishing reports on security issues, warning that inaccurate reports could create panic, mislead the public and erode confidence in security institutions.
To clarify the controversy, the Force encouraged the public to review the full video of the Inspector-General’s remarks, noting that it provides the complete context of his comments.
“The Nigeria Police Force remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of all Nigerians and will continue to enforce the law fairly, professionally and within the bounds of the law,” the statement added.
