‎IGP Bans Unauthorised Social Media Activities by Police Personnel ‎

The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has directed officers and personnel of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) to desist from engaging in unauthorised social media activities capable of undermining the image, professionalism and integrity of the Force.
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‎The directive was contained in a statement issued  by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Anietie Okokon Edem Iniedu, on Monday, in Abuja.
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‎According to the statement, the directive followed growing concerns over the increasing trend of police personnel creating and sharing videos, conducting live broadcasts, and participating in other social media activities while in uniform or in circumstances that identify them as police officers without official authorisation.
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‎The statement noted that while social media remains an important platform for communication and public engagement, its use by serving officers must strictly comply with existing laws, regulations and the Nigeria Police Force Social Media Policy.
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‎The IGP warned that personnel are prohibited from producing or sharing unauthorised content while in police uniform, publicly commenting on official police matters without approval, disclosing sensitive operational information, or using their status as police officers for personal promotion, entertainment or commercial gain.
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‎To ensure compliance, Disu directed Commissioners of Police, heads of departments, commanders and other supervisory officers nationwide to immediately sensitise personnel under their command and enforce the directive.
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‎He further warned that supervisory officers would be held accountable for any failure to address violations committed within their areas of responsibility.
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‎The IGP also tasked the Force Intelligence Department (FID) and the Professional Standards Department (X-Squad) with intensifying the monitoring of social media platforms to identify officers whose online activities fall below the professional standards expected of members of the Force.
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‎The directive forms part of ongoing efforts by the Nigeria Police Force to strengthen discipline, uphold professionalism, promote responsible public communication and sustain public confidence in the institution.
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