The police denied reports of an alleged ‘shoot on sight’ directive issued by the IGP regarding illegal firearms

The Nigerian Police have rejected reports alleging that the Inspector General of Police, IGP Olatunji Disu, directed officers to shoot anyone found in possession of illegal firearms, describing the claims as false and a distortion of his statement.

This clarification was contained in a statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, who said reports circulating on social media had misrepresented the Inspector General’s comments at a stakeholders’ meeting in Makurdi, Benue State.

According to the Force Headquarters, the IGP never authorized or announced a “shoot on sight” policy and urged the public to ignore reports stating otherwise.

The statement read: “The Nigerian Police have become aware of misleading reports claiming that the Inspector General of Police, IGP Olatunji Disu, ordered police officers to ‘shoot anyone with illegal firearms.’ This claim is false and does not reflect what the Inspector General is saying.

“In a stakeholders meeting held in Makurdi, Benue State, the Inspector General did not give a ‘shoot-on-sight’ order. His comments have been taken out of context and misrepresented to the public.

“In his speech, the IGP reminded officers that only legally authorized security personnel are allowed to carry firearms. He also spoke about the growing problem of illegal weapons, which are often used by criminals to carry out kidnappings, armed robberies, banditry, cult violence and other serious crimes.

“The Inspector General further reminded police officers that the use of firearms is guided by Force Order 237 which clearly states when an officer may legally use a firearm while carrying out their official duties. He emphasized that officers must always act in accordance with the law and follow the approved rules for the use of force. He has never ordered officers to shoot anyone just because they are found carrying an illegal firearm.

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“The Nigerian Police Force remains committed to protecting the lives and rights of all Nigerians. The Police Force will continue to carry out its duties with professionalism, respect for the law, and respect for human rights. Officers are expected to carry out their duties responsibly and in line with the Constitution and other relevant laws.

“Therefore, the Force advises members of the public and media organizations to verify information before publishing or sharing it. Misleading reports on security issues can create unnecessary fear, confuse the public, and undermine trust in security institutions.

“For clarity, the Nigerian Police encourages the public to watch the attached video of the Inspector General’s full statement. The video clearly shows what he said and places his comments in the proper context.

“The Nigerian Police Force remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of all Nigerians and will continue to enforce the law fairly, professionally and within the bounds of the law.”

Police explained that the Inspector General’s statement was intended to remind officers of the legal framework governing the possession and use of firearms in Nigeria, in particular the provisions of Force Order 237, which outlines the circumstances in which officers may lawfully discharge their weapons.

The Force also stressed that the IGP’s comments focused on the growing threat posed by illegally owned firearms, and noted that these weapons are often used in the commission of serious crimes, including kidnapping, armed robbery, banditry and cult-related violence.

Reaffirming its commitment to constitutional oversight, the Nigerian Police said its personnel remain bound by operational procedures and established human rights standards in the performance of their duties, while urging journalists and members of the public to verify security-related information before disseminating or publishing it.