BREAKING: Police Dismiss Viral ‘Shoot-On-Sight’ IGP Directive

According to Ireporter Online, the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has dismissed reports claiming that the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, directed officers to adopt a “shoot-on-sight” approach during a stakeholders’ meeting held in Makurdi, Benue State.

In a statement issued to clarify the controversy, the Force described the reports as misleading, explaining that the Inspector-General’s remarks had been taken out of context.

The Police stated that the IGP did not authorise officers to shoot suspects on sight. Instead, he was reaffirming the provisions of Force Order 237, which outlines the legal and operational guidelines governing the use of firearms by police personnel.

According to the statement, Disu reminded stakeholders that officers across the country had already been adequately briefed on the provisions of the order and were expected to apply firearms only in circumstances permitted under the approved Rules of Engagement.

The Force explained that the Inspector-General’s comments were intended to reinforce professionalism and ensure strict compliance with established operational procedures, rather than encourage the indiscriminate use of force.

It added that the police chief also emphasised that illegal possession of firearms and violent criminal activities would not be tolerated, assuring that offenders would be dealt with strictly in accordance with the law.

The NPF stressed that the IGP remains committed to maintaining public safety while ensuring that police operations are conducted within the limits of the law and existing operational guidelines.

The Force urged members of the public and media organisations to disregard reports alleging that a shoot-on-sight directive had been issued, describing such claims as inaccurate and based on incomplete interpretations of the Inspector-General’s remarks.

To promote accurate understanding, the Police encouraged the public to watch the full video of the IGP’s address, noting that the complete footage provides the proper context of his statements and would help curb the spread of misinformation.

The Force reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism, accountability and lawful policing, maintaining that officers are required to carry out their duties in strict compliance with the law and the approved Rules of Engagement.