The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has dismissed widespread reports claiming that Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Disu ordered officers to “shoot on sight” anyone found carrying illegal firearms, saying his remarks were misinterpreted.
The Nigeria Police Force has issued an official clarification following reports that Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Disu directed officers nationwide to shoot anyone carrying illegal firearms.
In a statement titled “Clarification: What the Inspector-General of Police Actually Said in Makurdi,” the Force said the IGP never issued a blanket “shoot-on-sight” directive during the stakeholders’ meeting held in Benue State.
Police Explain What the IGP Actually Said
According to the Force, the IGP merely reminded officers that they had already been briefed on Force Order 237, which outlines the legal and operational circumstances under which police personnel may use firearms.
The statement stressed that officers are expected to act strictly within the established Rules of Engagement and not outside the provisions of the law.
Illegal Arms Still Won’t Be Tolerated
While denying the alleged “shoot-on-sight” order, the Police reiterated that illegal possession of firearms and violent crimes remain unacceptable.
The Force said the Inspector-General emphasized that those involved in unlawful possession of arms and violent killings would continue to face decisive law enforcement action in accordance with existing laws.
Clarification Follows Viral Reports
The clarification came after several media reports and social media posts claimed the IGP had instructed officers to immediately shoot anyone found carrying illegal firearms.
The reports sparked widespread debate over police use of force before the Nigeria Police Force issued its official explanation.