The Nigeria Police Force has moved to debunk a wave of “shoot-on-sight” rumours trailing recent comments by the Inspector-General of Police. IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu clarified that his remarks in Makurdi, Benue State, were completely taken out of context, emphasizing that no illegal lethal force mandate was ever issued to personnel.
Clearing the air, Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Aniedu, explained that the Inspector-General’s directive was strictly a reminder that only legally authorized security personnel are permitted to carry firearms.
“The Nigeria Police Force has flagged a misleading report claiming that the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, ordered officers to ‘shoot anyone with illegal firearms,'” Aniedu stated.
“This claim is entirely false and grossly misrepresents the Inspector-General’s actual words.”
The Force Headquarters emphasized that during the stakeholders’ meeting in Makurdi, Benue State, the Inspector-General issued no such “shoot-on-sight” mandate, noting that his remarks were stripped of their original context and misrepresented to the public.
In his actual address, the IGP strictly reminded personnel that only legally authorized security operatives are permitted to bear arms. He highlighted the escalating menace of proliferation of illegal weapons, which syndicates deploy for kidnappings, armed robberies, banditry, cult violence, and other violent crimes.
Consequently, the Inspector-General reminded officers that firearm deployment remains bound by Force Order 237, which explicitly delineates the legal thresholds for discharging a weapon on duty. He reiterated that operatives must operate strictly within the law and uphold approved rules of engagement, clarifying that at no point were officers instructed to shoot individuals solely for possessing an unlicensed firearm.
“The Nigeria Police Force remains committed to protecting the lives and rights of all Nigerians. The Force will continue to carry out its duties with professionalism, respect for the law, and respect for human rights.
” Officers are expected to perform their duties responsibly and in line with the Constitution and other relevant laws. The Force therefore advises members of the public and media organisations to verify information before publishing or sharing it.
”Misleading reports on security matters can create unnecessary fear, confuse the public, and damage trust in security institutions. For clarity, the Nigeria Police Force encourages members of the public to watch the attached video of the Inspector-General’s complete remarks. The video clearly shows what he said and puts his comments in the proper context.
”The Nigeria 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 limits of the law.”
