ABUJA, Nigeria (FN) — The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has ordered officers of the Nigeria Police Force to stop engaging in unauthorized social media activities, warning that such conduct undermines the integrity and public image of the institution.
The directive, announced Tuesday in a statement by Force Public Relations Officer CSP Anietie Okonkon Edem Iniedu, follows growing concerns over police personnel posting videos, conducting live sessions, and engaging in online activities while in uniform or in circumstances that identify them as serving officers.
Disu emphasized that while social media remains an important tool for communication and public engagement, its use by police officers must comply with existing laws, regulations, and the Nigeria Police Force Social Media Policy.
Under the directive, officers are prohibited from creating or sharing unauthorized content in uniform, commenting publicly on official police matters, disclosing sensitive operational information, or using their status for personal promotion, entertainment, or commercial gain.
The move reflects broader efforts by Nigerian authorities to regulate digital conduct among public officials. Analysts say the directive is part of a wider push to maintain professionalism in law enforcement and prevent reputational damage caused by viral online content.
Civil society groups have welcomed the step, noting that unauthorized social media use by officers has sometimes exposed sensitive operations or fueled public mistrust. However, some critics argue that the policy could limit transparency and restrict officers from engaging positively with communities online.
Globally, police forces in countries such as the United States and the United Kingdom have also introduced strict guidelines on officers’ use of social media, underscoring the growing challenge of balancing digital engagement with professional standards.
Nigeria’s police chief has drawn a firm line on social media use, insisting that officers must uphold professionalism and avoid online activities that could compromise the Force’s credibility. The directive places Nigeria in line with international policing standards on digital conduct.
