IGP urges responsible use of police-related videos, warns against harassment of officers

…Strengthens Media Partnership

By Kingsley Omonobi

ABUJA — The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Disu, has called for greater responsibility in the recording and circulation of police-related video content, warning that misuse of such materials could undermine officers’ morale, distort public perception, and negatively affect security operations across the country.

Disu made the appeal during an interactive session with crime correspondents in Abuja, where he reaffirmed the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to accountability, transparency, professionalism, and respect for human rights.

The IGP stressed the need to balance public scrutiny with the operational realities and welfare of police personnel, noting that officers continue to make significant sacrifices in the discharge of their constitutional responsibilities.

“Accountability is important, and we remain committed to transparency. However, recordings of public engagements involving police officers must be done responsibly and should not be used to harass officers or undermine operational effectiveness,” he said.

He expressed concern over what he described as the growing trend of indiscriminate recording of officers during routine and sensitive activities, including while they are eating, warning that such actions could negatively impact morale at a time security personnel are confronting multiple challenges nationwide.

“Police officers operate under extremely challenging conditions, often risking their lives to protect citizens and maintain public safety. It is important that public conduct and media coverage do not discourage officers who are committed to doing the right thing,” Disu stated.

The police chief also decried the circulation of old and misleading videos falsely presented as recent incidents, saying the practice fuels misinformation, creates public panic, and heightens tension within communities.

“We urge members of the public and social media users to refrain from recycling old or manipulated videos capable of creating panic or undermining national security efforts. Such actions are harmful to the country’s image and stability,” he said.

Disu disclosed that policing in Nigeria has become increasingly demanding, with officers now working extended hours under severe operational pressure.

“We no longer operate the conventional policing structure of morning, afternoon and night shifts. Officers work virtually round the clock under very difficult circumstances,” he said.

According to him, many officers continue to sacrifice sleep, comfort and, in some cases, their lives to ensure public safety.

“Last year alone, the FCT Police Command lost about 140 officers through violent attacks, accidents and other duty-related incidents,” he added.

The IGP reiterated the Force’s zero-tolerance stance on misconduct, assuring Nigerians that erring officers would continue to face disciplinary measures in line with established laws and professional standards.

“We have consistently demonstrated our commitment to ending impunity within the Force, and we will continue to address complaints against personnel professionally and decisively. At the same time, officers carrying out lawful duties must also be protected from harassment and deliberate misinformation,” he said.

Disu further assured Nigerians of sustained engagement between the police and the media to strengthen transparency, public trust and effective communication on security matters.

He described journalists as strategic partners in the fight against insecurity and urged continued collaboration in promoting responsible and accurate security reporting.

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