The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Disu, has ordered all officers and men of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) to desist from unauthorised social media activities that could undermine the Force’s integrity, professionalism, and public image.
The directive came amid growing concerns about police personnel creating and posting videos, conducting live social media sessions, and engaging in other online activities while in uniform or in situations that clearly identify them as members of the Force, without official approval.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Anietie Iniedu, the IGP stressed that although social media remains an important platform for communication and public engagement, its use by serving officers must strictly conform to existing laws, regulations, and the Nigeria Police Force Social Media Policy.
Disu warned that officers are prohibited from creating or sharing unauthorised content while in police uniform, commenting publicly on official police matters, disclosing sensitive operational information, or using their status as police officers for personal promotion, entertainment, or commercial purposes.
The police chief said such actions could erode public confidence in the Force and compromise its professional standards.
To ensure strict compliance, the IGP directed Commissioners of Police, Heads of Departments, Commanders, and other supervisory officers across the country to immediately sensitise personnel under their command and enforce adherence to the directive.
He further warned that supervisory officers would be held accountable for any failure to take appropriate disciplinary action against erring personnel within their jurisdictions.
As part of measures to strengthen enforcement, Disu directed the Force Intelligence Department (FID) and the Professional Standards Department, popularly known as the X-Squad, to intensify monitoring of social media platforms and identify officers whose online activities fall short of the ethical and professional standards expected of members of the Force.
The IGP reiterated the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to discipline, professionalism, and responsible public communication, assuring Nigerians of the Force’s determination to maintain public trust, safeguard institutional integrity, and uphold the highest standards of conduct in service delivery.
Iniedu said the directive is part of ongoing efforts by the police leadership to strengthen internal discipline and ensure that personnel’s conduct on digital platforms reflects the values and image of the Nigeria Police Force.