IGP Bans Unauthorised Social Media Content Creation by Police Officers

The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has issued a strict directive prohibiting police personnel from engaging in unauthorised social media activities, including content creation and live streaming while in uniform.

The new mandate, announced on Tuesday, aims to curb the rising trend of officers producing online content that the force says undermines its integrity and professional standards. While the police leadership acknowledged that social media is a valuable tool for public communication, it emphasized that its use by personnel must remain within the strict boundaries of the Nigeria Police Force Social Media Policy.

Under the new rules, officers are explicitly forbidden from:

* Creating or sharing content while wearing police uniforms without official clearance.

* Making public comments on sensitive official police matters.

* Disclosing operational information.

* Leveraging their status as police officers for personal promotion, commercial gain, or entertainment.

To enforce this directive, the Inspector-General has tasked Commissioners of Police and other heads of departments with monitoring their subordinates. The force warned that supervisory officers would be held directly accountable for any infractions or lack of oversight within their respective jurisdictions.

Furthermore, the Force Intelligence Department and the X-Squad the police unit responsible for maintaining professional standards have been ordered to increase monitoring of social media platforms to identify and address violations. The police leadership stated that these measures are essential to preserving the institutional image and maintaining public trust in the force.