Police debunk reports of IGP’s ‘shoot-on-sight’ order

By Adebola Isimijola, Lagos

The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has refuted reports alleging that the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Rilwan Disu, ordered officers to “shoot anyone with illegal firearms,” describing the claim as false and a gross misrepresentation of his remarks during a stakeholders’ meeting in Makurdi, Benue State.

The Force maintained that the IGP neither issued a “shoot-on-sight” directive nor authorised the unlawful use of firearms, insisting that his comments had been taken out of context and presented in a misleading manner.

The clarification was contained in a statement issued on Saturday by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, who explained that the Inspector-General merely reminded officers that only security personnel legally authorised by law are permitted to carry firearms.

According to the statement, the IGP also drew attention to the growing proliferation of illegal weapons, noting that such firearms are frequently used by criminals to perpetrate kidnapping, armed robbery, banditry, cult violence and other violent crimes across the country.

Iniedu said Disu further reminded officers that the use of firearms is governed by Force Order 237, which clearly stipulates the circumstances under which police personnel may lawfully deploy firearms while carrying out their official duties.

“At no time did he instruct officers to shoot anyone simply because they were found with an illegal firearm,” the statement said.

The police spokesperson added that the IGP emphasised that officers must always operate within the confines of the law and strictly adhere to the approved rules on the use of force.

Reaffirming its commitment to the protection of lives and property, the Force said its personnel are expected to perform their duties professionally, respect the Constitution and uphold the fundamental rights of all Nigerians.

The statement also urged media organisations and members of the public to verify information before publishing or sharing it, warning that misleading reports on security matters could create unnecessary panic, misinform the public and undermine confidence in security institutions.

The Force encouraged Nigerians to watch the complete video of the Inspector-General’s address for proper context, reiterating its commitment to enforcing the law fairly, professionally and within the limits of the Constitution