The Nigeria Police Force has dismissed reports claiming that Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, directed officers to shoot anyone found carrying illegal firearms, describing the reports as false and a distortion of his remarks.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, said the reports circulating on social media misrepresented comments made by the IGP during a stakeholders’ meeting in Makurdi, Benue State.
The police clarified that Disu did not issue any “shoot-on-sight” order during the meeting.
According to the statement, the IGP merely reminded officers that only legally authorised security personnel are permitted to carry firearms, while highlighting the dangers posed by the proliferation of illegal weapons used in crimes including kidnapping, armed robbery, banditry, cult-related violence and other criminal activities.
The Force added that Disu also reminded police officers that the use of firearms is regulated by Force Order 237, which specifies the circumstances under which officers may lawfully deploy their weapons in the course of official duties.
The police stressed that officers are required to operate within the law and adhere strictly to approved rules governing the use of force.
The Force reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and safeguarding the rights of Nigerians, while urging members of the public and media organisations to verify information before sharing or publishing reports.
The police also encouraged Nigerians to watch the full video of the IGP’s remarks, saying it provides the proper context and clearly demonstrates that no “shoot-on-sight” directive was issued.
