- Police denied reports that IGP Disu ordered officers to shoot suspects on sight.
- Disu reportedly explained existing rules governing lawful use of police firearms.
- Force urged Nigerians to watch the full video before judging his remarks.
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has denied reports that the Inspector General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, ordered officers to shoot suspects on sight during a stakeholders’ meeting in Makurdi, Benue State.
The Force described the reports as inaccurate, saying Disu was only explaining the existing regulations governing the use of firearms by police officers.
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EKO HOT BLOG reports that the clarification was contained in a statement issued by the Police in response to reports it said misrepresented the IGP’s remarks during the meeting.
According to the Force, Disu did not authorise police officers to shoot suspects on sight.
Instead, the Inspector General reiterated the provisions of Force Order 237, which outlines the legal and operational conditions under which police personnel may use firearms.
The Police said Disu informed stakeholders that officers had been properly briefed on the provisions of the order and understood the circumstances under which firearms could be used in accordance with established Rules of Engagement.
The Force explained that the IGP’s remarks were intended to remind officers to remain professional and carry out their duties within the boundaries of existing laws and operational guidelines.
It stressed that the comments should not be interpreted as an instruction for officers to use force indiscriminately.
The Police also said Disu made it clear that the illegal possession of firearms and acts of violence would not be tolerated.
It added that unlawful killings and other criminal activities would be dealt with in accordance with the law.
According to the Force, the IGP’s position was focused on maintaining security while ensuring that police officers operated within the law and complied with established Rules of Engagement.
The Police urged members of the public and the media to disregard reports suggesting that Disu had ordered officers to shoot suspects on sight.
It described the reports as inaccurate and said they were based on isolated portions of the IGP’s remarks taken out of context.
The Force further encouraged members of the public to watch the complete video of Disu’s comments to gain a proper understanding of his remarks.
According to the Police, viewing the full footage would help prevent the spread of misinformation and ensure that the public was not misled by reports based on selected portions of the IGP’s statement.
The Nigeria Police Force reiterated its commitment to professionalism and lawful operations, stressing that officers must continue to perform their duties in accordance with the law and approved Rules of Engagement.
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