No ‘Shoot-on-Sight’ Directive for Illegal Firearms, Nigeria Police Clarify

The Nigeria Police Force has debunked viral reports claiming that Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Disu ordered officers to shoot anyone found in possession of illegal firearms, insisting that the reports are inaccurate and distort his actual remarks.

In a statement released by Force Public Relations Officer CSP Ani Iniedu, the police said the claim originated from comments made by the IGP during a stakeholders’ meeting in Makurdi, Benue State, but had been taken out of context.

According to the Force, the IGP never instructed officers to adopt a “shoot-on-sight” approach toward individuals carrying illegal firearms.

The statement said:

“The Nigeria Police Force has noticed a misleading report claiming that the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Disu, ordered police officers to ‘shoot anyone with illegal firearms.’ This claim is false and does not reflect what the Inspector-General said.

“During the stakeholders’ meeting held in Makurdi, Benue State, the Inspector-General did not give any ‘shoot-on-sight’ order. His comments have been taken out of context and wrongly presented to the public.”

The police explained that the IGP’s remarks focused on the legal framework governing firearm possession, reminding officers that only authorised security personnel are permitted to carry weapons. He also highlighted the dangers posed by the growing use of illegal firearms in crimes such as kidnapping, armed robbery, banditry and cult violence.

The Force added that the Inspector-General emphasised compliance with Force Order 237, which regulates when police officers may lawfully use firearms in the course of their duties.

“The Inspector-General further reminded police officers that the use of firearms is guided by Force Order 237, which clearly states when an officer may lawfully use a firearm while carrying out official duties. He stressed that officers must always act within the law and follow the approved rules for the use of force. At no time did he instruct officers to shoot anyone simply because they were found with an illegal firearm.”

The Nigeria Police Force reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding lives, protecting human rights and enforcing the law professionally and within constitutional limits.

It also called on members of the public and media organisations to verify information before sharing it, warning that misleading security reports could generate public anxiety, spread misinformation and undermine trust in law enforcement agencies.

To address the controversy, the Force urged Nigerians to watch the complete video of the Inspector-General’s address, stating that it accurately reflects the context of his remarks.

Africans Angle News