Abuja: The Inspector-General of Police (I-G), Mr. Olatunji Disu, has cautioned against the growing trend of indiscriminate recording and circulation of videos of police officers on routine and sensitive duties. A statement by the Chairman, Crime Correspondents Association of Nigeria (CCAN), Mr. Festus Fifen, highlighted that the I-G issued this warning during an interactive session with members of the association.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Disu emphasized that the misuse of such video materials could undermine officers’ morale, distort public perception, and negatively affect ongoing security operations across the country. He reaffirmed the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to accountability, transparency, professionalism, and respect for human rights while noting that public scrutiny must be balanced with operational realities and the welfare of officers working under difficult and high-risk conditions.
Disu pointed out that police personnel make enormous sacrifices daily in the discharge of their constitutional responsibilities and deserve public understanding and support. While acknowledging the importance of accountability, Disu stated that the force remains committed to it, but recordings and public engagements involving police officers must be conducted responsibly. He stressed that such recordings should not be used to harass officers or undermine their operational effectiveness.
The I-G also expressed concern over the circulation of old and misleading videos, which are sometimes presented as recent incidents. He warned that these videos could contribute to misinformation, create public panic, and cause unnecessary tension within communities. Disu urged the public and social media users to refrain from recycling old or manipulated videos capable of creating panic or undermining national security, as such actions are harmful to the country’s image and stability.
Highlighting the increasing demands on policing in Nigeria, Disu noted that officers are now working extended hours under severe operational pressures. He revealed that the Police Command in the FCT lost about 140 officers in one year due to violent attacks, accidents, and other duty-related incidents. The I-G acknowledged the sacrifices officers make, including sacrificing sleep, comfort, and even their lives to ensure citizens live and work peacefully.
Disu also pledged to maintain the force’s zero-tolerance stance against impunity and assured Nigerians that officers found guilty of misconduct would continue to face disciplinary measures in line with established laws and professional standards. He emphasized that officers carrying out lawful duties must be protected from harassment and deliberate misinformation.
Finally, the I-G committed to sustaining the engagement between the police and the media to strengthen transparency, public trust, and effective communication on security matters.