The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has dismissed reports claiming that the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Rilwan Disu, ordered officers to shoot anyone found with an illegal firearm, describing the reports as false and misleading.
The Force said the IGP’s remarks during a stakeholders’ meeting in Makurdi, Benue State, had been taken out of context and misrepresented as a “shoot-on-sight” directive.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, explained that the Inspector-General only reiterated that, under Nigerian law, only authorised security personnel are permitted to bear firearms.
According to the statement, the IGP also raised concerns over the proliferation of illegal weapons, noting that such firearms are frequently used by criminals involved in kidnapping, armed robbery, banditry, cult-related violence and other violent crimes.
The Police stressed that the Inspector-General never instructed officers to shoot individuals found in possession of illegal firearms.
“The Inspector-General did not give any ‘shoot-on-sight’ order. His comments have been taken out of context and wrongly presented to the public,” the statement said.
The Force added that the IGP reminded officers that the use of firearms is regulated by Force Order 237, which clearly defines the circumstances under which police personnel may lawfully discharge their weapons while performing official duties.
“He stressed that officers must always act within the law and follow the approved rules for the use of force. At no time did he instruct officers to shoot anyone simply because they were found with an illegal firearm,” the Force said.
The Police reaffirmed their commitment to protecting the lives and rights of Nigerians, emphasising that officers are expected to carry out their duties professionally and in compliance with the Constitution, the law and established human rights standards.
The Force also urged media organisations and members of the public to verify information before publishing or sharing it, warning that inaccurate reports on security matters could create panic, mislead the public and undermine confidence in security institutions.
