The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has warned content makers, social media users, and members of the public against indiscriminately recording and sharing police-related films, saying that such activities could jeopardize security operations and demoralize officers.
The IG raised alarm over what he termed a rising tendency of recording police officers during routine and sensitive operations and then uploading the footage online without context.
During an interactive session with crime correspondents in Abuja on Sunday, he stated, “Yes, accountability is crucial, and we are committed to openness.
“However, recordings and public engagements involving police officers must be done responsibly and should not be used to harass law enforcement personnel or undermine operational effectiveness.”
According to him, while the Nigeria Police Force remains devoted to accountability, openness, and human rights, public scrutiny must be balanced with operational realities and officer well-being.
Disu stated that police officers continue to make great sacrifices in the performance of their responsibilities and should not be exposed to acts that discourage them.
“Police officers operate under extremely challenging conditions, often risking their lives to protect citizens and maintain public safety.
“It is important that public conduct and media coverage do not discourage officers who are committed to doing the right thing,” he stated.
The police boss also warned against the circulation of old or manipulated videos falsely presented as recent incidents, saying such content fuels misinformation and public anxiety.
“We urge members of the public and social media users to refrain from recycling old or manipulated videos capable of creating panic or undermining national security efforts.
“Such actions are harmful to the country’s image and stability,” he said.
Disu stated that policing has grown increasingly difficult, with officers working long hours under intense operational conditions across the country.
He reaffirmed the Force’s commitment to combating personnel misconduct, assuring Nigerians that officers found guilty of wrongdoing will face disciplinary action in compliance with existing laws and professional standards.
“We have consistently demonstrated our commitment to ending impunity within the Force, and we will continue to address complaints against personnel professionally and decisively.
“At the same time, officers carrying out lawful duties must also be protected from harassment and deliberate misinformation,” he added.
The IGP also promised Nigerians that the police and the media will continue to work together to build public trust, transparency, and effective communication about security issues.
Earlier, Festus Fifen, chairman of the Nigerian Crime Correspondents Association, urged for greater collaboration between the media and the police, emphasizing the importance of rapid access to accurate information during security events to avoid misinformation and speculation.
