IGP bars Police officers from unauthorised social media activities

By Adebola Isimijola, Lagos

The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has directed all officers and men of the Nigeria Police Force to desist from unauthorised social media activities, warning that violators would face disciplinary action.

The directive prohibits serving police personnel from creating and sharing unauthorised videos, conducting live social media sessions, commenting on official police matters, disclosing sensitive operational information, or using their status as police officers for personal promotion, entertainment or commercial gain.

The IGP also ordered Commissioners of Police, heads of departments, commanders and other supervisory officers to ensure strict compliance with the directive, stressing that they would be held accountable for violations within their jurisdictions.

In a statement issued on Monday by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Anietie Okokon Edem Iniedu, the police chief said the order became necessary following growing concerns over the increasing trend of personnel engaging in social media activities while in uniform or in circumstances identifying them as members of the Force without official authorisation.

The statement quoted the IGP as saying that although social media remains an important tool for communication and public engagement, its use by serving officers must be guided by extant laws, regulations and the Nigeria Police Force Social Media Policy.

He maintained that officers are prohibited from “creating or sharing unauthorised content in police uniform, commenting publicly on official police matters, disclosing sensitive operational information, or using their status as police officers for personal promotion, entertainment, or commercial gain.”

To enforce the directive, the Force Intelligence Department (FID) and the Professional Standards Department (X-Squad) have been mandated to intensify monitoring of social media platforms and identify officers whose online activities are inconsistent with the professional standards of the Nigeria Police Force.

The Force reiterated its commitment to discipline, professionalism and responsible public communication, assuring members of the public of its continued dedication to maintaining public trust and institutional integrity.