The Nigeria Police Force has dismissed reports claiming that the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Olatunji Disu, ordered officers to shoot anyone found in possession of illegal firearms, describing the claim as false and a misrepresentation of the IGP’s remarks.
In a statement issued on Saturday by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, the police said the Inspector General never gave a “shoot on sight” directive during a stakeholders’ meeting in Makurdi, Benue State, contrary to reports circulating in some sections of the media.
The statement explained that the IGP only reminded officers that the law permits only authorised security personnel to bear firearms and expressed concern over the increasing use of illegal weapons by criminals involved in kidnapping, armed robbery, banditry, cultism and other violent crimes.
According to the police, Disu also reiterated that the use of firearms by officers is governed by Force Order 237, which clearly stipulates the circumstances under which a police officer may lawfully discharge a weapon while carrying out official duties.
“The Inspector General stressed that officers must always act within the law and follow the approved rules on 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 read.
The Force further reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the lives and rights of all Nigerians, stressing that officers are expected to perform their duties professionally, lawfully and with full respect for human rights.
The police also urged journalists and members of the public to verify information before publishing or sharing it, warning that inaccurate reports on security matters could create unnecessary panic, mislead the public and undermine confidence in security institutions.
