Pat Stevens/
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Disu, has ordered a nationwide clampdown on unauthorised social media activities by serving police officers, warning that personnel who post videos, conduct live broadcasts or use their status as police officers for personal gain risk disciplinary action.
The directive, issued on Monday, marks one of the strongest attempts by the leadership of the Nigeria Police Force to regulate officers’ online conduct amid the growing popularity of social media platforms and the increasing visibility of police personnel on TikTok, Facebook, Instagram and other digital channels.
In a statement from Force Headquarters in Abuja, the police chief directed all officers and rank-and-file personnel to desist from social media activities capable of undermining the image, professionalism and integrity of the Force.
According to the directive, police officers are prohibited from creating or sharing unauthorised content while in uniform, commenting publicly on official police matters, disclosing operational information or using their positions within the Force for entertainment, commercial activities or personal promotion.
“The Inspector-General of Police 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,” the statement said.
The police authorities said the decision was prompted by growing concerns over what they described as an increasing trend of officers creating videos, conducting live sessions and engaging in online activities while in uniform or in circumstances that clearly identify them as members of the Force.
Disu stressed that while social media remains an important communication tool, its use by serving personnel must be governed by existing 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,” the statement added.
The latest order comes only weeks after Disu publicly expressed concern about the growing circulation of police-related videos online.
During an interaction with crime correspondents in Abuja in June, the Inspector-General warned that indiscriminate recording and dissemination of police content could undermine security operations and negatively affect officers’ morale.
He stated that while accountability and transparency remained important, public engagements involving police personnel must be conducted responsibly.
To ensure compliance with the new directive, Commissioners of Police, heads of departments, commanders and other supervisory officers have been instructed to immediately sensitise officers under their commands and enforce strict adherence.
In a significant move, the police leadership said senior officers would be held accountable for violations committed by personnel under their supervision if appropriate disciplinary measures were not taken.
The IGP also directed the Force Intelligence Department and the Professional Standards Department, popularly known as the X-Squad, to intensify monitoring of social media platforms in order to identify officers whose online conduct falls short of the Force’s professional standards.
“Supervisory officers will be held accountable for failure to take appropriate action against violations within their areas of responsibility,” the statement said.
The Nigeria Police Force said the directive forms part of broader efforts to strengthen discipline, professionalism and public confidence in the institution.
Despite the restrictions, police authorities maintained that social media remains an important platform for public communication and engagement, provided it is used in accordance with established regulations and official policy.
“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,” the statement said.
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