The Nigeria Police Force has dismissed reports claiming that Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Disu ordered officers to shoot anyone found with illegal firearms. The clarification was issued on Saturday after media reports suggested that the police chief gave a shoot-at-sight directive during a stakeholders’ meeting in Makurdi, Benue State.
In a statement released by the Force Public Relations Officer, Aniete Iniedu, the police said the Inspector-General’s comments had been misunderstood and presented in a way that did not reflect what he actually said during the meeting.
According to the statement, Disu reminded officers that only security personnel legally permitted to carry firearms are allowed to do so. He also spoke about the increasing spread of illegal weapons across the country and explained that such arms are often used by criminals involved in kidnapping, armed robbery, banditry, cult activities and other violent crimes.
The police explained that the Inspector-General also referred to Force Order 237, which regulates the use of firearms by officers while performing official duties.
The statement noted that the order allows the lawful use of firearms only under approved circumstances and requires officers to act within the limits of the law whenever force becomes necessary.
The Force maintained that at no point during the meeting did the Inspector-General instruct officers to shoot people simply because they were found in possession of illegal firearms. It said reports suggesting otherwise were inaccurate and failed to present his remarks in their proper context.
The police also restated their commitment to protecting lives and respecting the rights of citizens while carrying out law enforcement duties. The statement added that officers are expected to perform their responsibilities professionally and in line with the Constitution and other applicable laws.
The Force urged members of the public and media organisations to verify information before publishing or sharing reports on security matters. It warned that inaccurate reports could create unnecessary fear, mislead the public and reduce confidence in security institutions.
To clear any misunderstanding, the police encouraged Nigerians to watch the complete video of the Inspector-General’s speech, saying it provides the full context of his remarks and shows that no shoot-at-sight order was given. The Force added that it remains committed to enforcing the law fairly, professionally and within legal boundaries.