ABUJA — Nigeria’s Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has banned all police personnel from engaging in unauthorised social media activities, warning that improper online conduct undermines the professionalism and public image of the force.
The strict directive follows growing concerns over an increasing trend of serving police officers publishing videos, hosting live internet broadcasts, and creating digital content while wearing official police uniforms.
The police chief emphasized that while social media is a vital communication tool, its deployment by serving personnel must strictly comply with the Nigeria Police Force Social Media Policy.
Under the updated regulations, officers are expressly prohibited from:
- Creating or sharing unauthorised content while dressed in police uniform.
- Commenting publicly on official or sensitive police matters.
- Disclosing operational details or intelligence information online.
- Using their official status for personal promotion, entertainment, or commercial gain.
Crackdown on ‘uniformed influencers’
The rise of digital platforms has seen several Nigerian security personnel amass large online followings by sharing comedic sketches, lip-sync videos, and personal commentary while in uniform. However, authorities argue this compromises institutional discipline and security protocols.
To enforce the ban, regional commissioners of police and departmental heads have been ordered to immediately monitor personnel under their command. The police high command warned that supervisory officers will be held directly accountable if they fail to discipline violators within their units.
Increased surveillance
The Force Intelligence Department (FID) and the police internal watchdog unit, the X-Squad, have been ordered to step up digital surveillance across major platforms to identify non-compliant officers.
A statement issued on Tuesday by Force Public Relations Officer Anietie Okokon Edem Iniedu reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to maintaining public trust through disciplined and responsible public communication.
Officers found violating the directive face severe disciplinary actions under the police code of conduct.
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