The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has directed all officers and men of the Nigeria Police Force to desist from unauthorised social media activities capable of undermining the integrity, professionalism, and public image of the Force.
According to a statement on Tuesday by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Anietie Okonkon Edem Iniedu, the directive follows growing concerns over the increasing trend of police personnel creating and publishing videos, conducting live sessions, and engaging in other social media activities while in uniform or in circumstances that identify them as members of the Nigeria Police Force without official authorisation.
Naijaonpoint reports that the IGP emphasized that while 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 noted 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 ensure compliance, Commissioners of Police, Heads of Departments, Commanders, and other supervisory officers have been directed to immediately sensitise personnel under their commands and enforce strict adherence to the directive.
Supervisory officers will be held accountable for failure to take appropriate action against violations within their areas of responsibility.
The Inspector-General further directed the Force Intelligence Department(FID) and the Professional Standards Department (X-Squad) to strengthen monitoring of social media platforms and identify officers engaged in activities inconsistent with the professional standards of the Nigeria Police Force.
Iniedu added in the statement that the “Nigeria Police Force reiterates its commitment to discipline, professionalism, and responsible public communication, while assuring members of the public of its continued dedication to maintaining public trust and institutional integrity.”
