The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has dismissed reports claiming that Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Olatunji Disu ordered officers to shoot anyone found carrying illegal firearms in Benue State.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the Force clarified that the IGP did not issue a blanket “shoot-on-sight” directive during his stakeholders’ meeting in Makurdi, the Benue State capital.
According to the police, media reports suggesting that the IGP ordered officers to immediately shoot individuals carrying illegal weapons misrepresented his remarks and lacked the full context of his address.
Police Explain IGP Disu’s Comments on Illegal Firearms
The Nigeria Police Force explained that IGP Disu was referring to Force Order 237, which outlines the legal framework governing the use of firearms by police officers during law enforcement operations.
The Force stated that Force Order 237 clearly specifies the circumstances under which officers may lawfully use firearms. It stressed that police personnel are trained to apply the rules of engagement professionally and in accordance with the law.
According to the statement, the Inspector-General’s comments were intended to remind officers of the existing operational guidelines rather than introduce a new policy.
Force Order 237 Guides Police Use of Firearms
The police emphasized that officers across the country have received training on the lawful use of firearms under Force Order 237.
The Force noted that the directive remains the official standard for police operations and ensures that firearms are deployed only when legally justified and operationally necessary.
It added that all officers are expected to act within the provisions of the law while protecting lives and maintaining public safety.
IGP Warns Against Illegal Possession of Firearms
While clarifying his remarks, the Nigeria Police Force said IGP Disu maintained a firm stance against the illegal possession of firearms and the increasing incidents of violent killings in Benue State.
The Force reiterated that individuals involved in unlawful possession of weapons, violent crimes, or acts that threaten public peace will be dealt with in accordance with Nigerian law.
However, it stressed that this should not be interpreted as a general order authorizing officers to shoot anyone found with a firearm.
Police Release Video to Correct Misleading Reports
To address the controversy, the Nigeria Police Force released the full video of the Inspector-General’s remarks at the stakeholders’ meeting.
According to the Force, the video provides the complete context of the IGP’s statement and demonstrates that he was explaining existing operational procedures rather than issuing a new shoot-on-sight order.
The police urged journalists, media organizations, and members of the public to rely on the complete video and the official statement instead of reports that inaccurately portrayed the Inspector-General’s comments.
Nigeria Police Urge Public to Verify Information
The Nigeria Police Force called on Nigerians to verify security-related information through official channels before sharing or reacting to reports circulating online.
The Force said accurate reporting is essential to maintaining public confidence and preventing the spread of misinformation, especially on sensitive security issues.
It reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives, enforcing the law, and carrying out its constitutional responsibilities while respecting human rights and established rules of engagement.
