The Nigeria Police Force has dismissed as false reports claiming that the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun’s successor, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, ordered officers to “shoot anyone with illegal firearms,” insisting that his remarks were taken out of context.
In a statement issued on Saturday by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, the police clarified that the IGP made no “shoot-on-sight” directive during a stakeholders’ meeting held in Makurdi, Benue State.
According to the statement, the Inspector-General merely reminded officers that only authorised security personnel are legally permitted to carry firearms and highlighted the growing threat posed by illegal weapons in the hands of criminals involved in kidnapping, armed robbery, banditry, cult violence and other violent crimes.
The Force explained that the IGP also reiterated that the use of firearms by police officers is strictly regulated by Force Order 237, which outlines the circumstances under which officers may lawfully use firearms while performing their duties.
“He stressed that officers must always act within the law and follow the approved rules for 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 said.
The police reaffirmed their commitment to protecting the lives and rights of all Nigerians, stressing that officers are expected to carry out their responsibilities professionally, lawfully and with full respect for human rights.
The Force also urged media organisations and members of the public to verify information before publishing or sharing it, warning that inaccurate reports on security matters could create unnecessary fear, mislead the public and undermine confidence in security institutions.
To provide clarity, the police encouraged Nigerians to watch the full video of the Inspector-General’s remarks, saying it accurately reflects the context of his comments.
The statement reiterated the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to ensuring public safety while enforcing the law fairly, professionally and within constitutional limits.
