The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has dismissed reports claiming that the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Rilwan Disu, issued a “shoot-on-sight” directive during a recent stakeholders’ meeting in Makurdi, Benue State, insisting that his remarks were misunderstood and taken out of context.

In a statement released to clarify the controversy, the Force said the police chief did not authorize officers to use lethal force indiscriminately. Rather, he was reaffirming the provisions of Force Order 237, the operational guideline that regulates when and how police personnel may lawfully deploy firearms while carrying out their duties.

According to the statement, the IGP informed stakeholders that police officers across the country had been thoroughly briefed on the provisions of the order and were fully aware of the circumstances under which firearms could be used in accordance with established Rules of Engagement.

The Force explained that the Inspector-General’s comments were aimed at reinforcing professionalism, discipline, and strict adherence to existing operational procedures. It stressed that his message focused on ensuring that officers act within the law while responding to security threats and maintaining public safety.

Police authorities further noted that the IGP made it clear that criminal acts, including the illegal possession of firearms, violent attacks, and unlawful killings, would not be condoned, emphasizing the Force’s commitment to tackling insecurity within the bounds of the law.

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Rejecting reports that suggested the police boss had instructed officers to shoot suspects on sight, the Force described such interpretations as inaccurate and misleading. It maintained that the remarks had been selectively reported, creating a false impression of the Inspector-General’s position.

The Nigeria Police Force subsequently urged members of the public and media organisations to disregard the reports and seek information from verified sources before drawing conclusions.

To promote transparency and prevent the spread of misinformation, the Force encouraged Nigerians to watch the complete video of the Inspector-General’s address, noting that the full recording provides the proper context of his remarks and clearly reflects his emphasis on lawful policing and operational accountability.