…Threatens dismissal, salary forfeiture
The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Disu, has banned serving officers of the Nigeria Police Force from engaging in unauthorised social media activities, warning that violators risk dismissal and other disciplinary actions.
The directive affects officers using platforms such as TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and similar apps for content-creation while identifying as members of the police.
The order was contained in an internal circular dated June 22, 2026, marked: ‘Restricted – For Official Use Only’, and addressed to senior police commanders across the country.
According to the circular, the Force expressed concern over officers posting videos, live streams and other content in uniform or in situations that link them directly to the Nigeria Police Force. It stated that some personnel had turned social media into a space for skits, monetised content, brand promotion and commentary on police operations without approval.
Under the new rules, officers are prohibited from posting videos, photos or live content in uniform or within Police facilities without written permission. They are also barred from running personal or anonymous accounts for entertainment or commercial purposes that make use of their police identity.
The ban further extends to public comments on sensitive police matters, including operations, investigations, promotions and internal disciplinary issues. The circular also warned against sharing classified or operational information such as deployments, strategies and personnel records.
Senior officers have been made responsible for monitoring the online behaviour of personnel under their command, with both officers and supervisors liable for sanctions where breaches occur. The Force Intelligence Bureau and the X-Squad have been directed to monitor social media platforms for violations.
Officers currently running content accounts linked to their identity as police personnel have been given 14 days to deactivate them or remove such connections. The IGP warned that punishments for breaches include interdiction, salary suspension during investigations, demotion, dismissal and possible prosecution.
The directive takes immediate effect nationwide.
