ENUGU, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)- The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has banned unauthorised social media activities by personnel of the Nigeria Police Force, warning that such conduct could damage the Force’s integrity, professionalism and public image.
The directive was contained in a statement issued on Monday by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Anietie Iniedu, amid growing concerns over the increasing participation of police officers in social media activities while in uniform or in situations where they are clearly identifiable as members of the Force without official authorisation.
According to the IGP, while social media remains an important platform for communication and public engagement, its use by serving police personnel must strictly comply with existing laws, regulations and the Nigeria Police Force Social Media Policy.
Disu stressed that officers are prohibited from creating or sharing unauthorised content while dressed in police uniform, making public comments on official police matters, disclosing sensitive operational information, or using their status as police officers for personal promotion, entertainment or commercial purposes.
He directed all Commissioners of Police, Heads of Departments, Commanders and other supervisory officers across the country to immediately sensitise personnel under their commands and ensure full compliance with the directive.
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The police chief further warned that supervisory officers would be held responsible for any failure to address violations committed by personnel under their supervision.
As part of measures to enforce the directive, Disu ordered the Force Intelligence Department (FID) and the Professional Standards Department, popularly known as the X-Squad, to intensify surveillance of social media platforms and identify officers whose online conduct falls below the professional standards expected of members of the Nigeria Police Force.
The IGP reiterated the Force’s commitment to discipline, professionalism and responsible public communication, assuring Nigerians that the Police would continue to uphold public trust and institutional integrity in the discharge of its constitutional responsibilities.
According to him, maintaining professionalism on and off duty remains essential to preserving the credibility of the Nigeria Police Force and strengthening public confidence in law enforcement institutions.