The Nigeria Police Force has clarified that the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, did not issue a “shoot-on-sight” order during his recent visit to Makurdi, Benue State, describing media reports to that effect as a misrepresentation of his remarks.
In a statement issued on Friday, the Force said the IGP’s comments at a stakeholders’ meeting in Makurdi had been taken out of context.
According to the statement, Disu merely reminded police officers of the provisions of Force Order 237, which regulates the lawful use of firearms by officers in the discharge of their duties.
The police explained that the IGP said officers had been adequately briefed on the operational guidelines governing the deployment of firearms and understood when it is appropriate to use their weapons in line with the established Rules of Engagement.
The Force stressed that the Inspector-General did not direct officers to shoot anyone on sight as widely reported.
Rather, the IGP reaffirmed that illegal possession of firearms and acts of violence would not be tolerated by law enforcement agencies.
“The Inspector-General of Police did not issue any ‘shoot-on-sight’ order as widely misreported,” the statement said.
It added that the IGP only reiterated that officers are guided by Force Order 237 and are expected to act strictly within the law when confronted with security threats.
The police urged the public and media organisations to rely on verified information and avoid circulating reports capable of creating unnecessary panic or misunderstanding.
To ensure transparency, the Force encouraged members of the public to watch the full video of the Inspector-General’s remarks to appreciate the context of his comments.
The clarification followed widespread media reports suggesting that the IGP had ordered police officers to shoot anyone found carrying illegal firearms during the stakeholders’ meeting in Benue State.
The Nigeria Police Force reiterated its commitment to professionalism, accountability and adherence to the rule of law in all its operations across the country.
