IG cautions against indiscriminate recording of police operations

Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Disu has urged content creators and the public to exercise caution when recording and sharing videos of police operations. Speaking at an interactive session with Crime Correspondents in Abuja, Disu expressed concern over the growing trend of posting such content online without proper context, warning that it can undermine security efforts and discourage officers.

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Yes, accountability is important, and we remain committed to transparency. However, recordings and public engagements involving police officers must be done responsibly and should not be used to harass officers or undermine operational effectiveness.

"Accountability is important, and we remain committed to transparency," Disu stated. "However, recordings and public engagements involving police officers must be done responsibly and should not be used to harass officers or undermine operational effectiveness." He stressed that while the Nigeria Police Force values transparency and human rights, public scrutiny must be balanced with operational realities and the welfare of officers.

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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.

Disu highlighted the significant sacrifices police personnel make, often risking their lives in challenging conditions. He emphasized that public conduct and media coverage should not demoralize officers committed to their duties. The IG also warned against the circulation of old or manipulated videos, which he said fuel misinformation and public anxiety, harming the country's image and stability.

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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.

The police chief reiterated the Force's commitment to addressing misconduct and assured that culpable officers would face disciplinary action. "At the same time, officers carrying out lawful duties must also be protected from harassment and deliberate misinformation," he added, underscoring the need for a balanced approach to public scrutiny and police operations.

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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.