IG warns against indiscriminate recording, circulation of police videos

Nigeria's Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has issued a strong caution to content creators, social media users, and the public regarding the indiscriminate recording and circulation of police-related videos. He warned that such practices could compromise security operations and negatively impact officer morale.

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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.

Disu expressed concern over the increasing trend of recording police officers during both routine and sensitive operations, with the subsequent online posting of these videos without adequate context. He stressed that while accountability and transparency remain priorities for the Nigeria Police Force, the public's engagement with police activities must be responsible. Recordings should not be used to harass officers or hinder operational effectiveness, he stated.

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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.

The Inspector-General highlighted the challenging conditions under which police personnel operate, often risking their lives to ensure public safety. He urged that public conduct and media coverage should not discourage officers dedicated to their duties. Disu also cautioned against the circulation of old or manipulated videos presented as recent incidents, as this can spread misinformation and increase public anxiety, ultimately harming the country's image and stability.

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We urge 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.

Reiterating the Force's commitment to addressing misconduct, Disu assured the public that officers found culpable would face disciplinary action. Simultaneously, he emphasized the need to protect officers carrying out lawful duties from harassment and deliberate misinformation. The IGP pledged sustained engagement between the police and the media to foster better understanding and cooperation.

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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.