The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Disu, has directed Nigerian police officers to immediately stop creating unauthorized content on social media platforms, including TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, and X.
The order, announced on June 23, 2026, prohibits officers from posting videos, conducting livestreams, or engaging in online activities while presenting themselves as members of the Nigeria Police Force without official approval.
According to a statement released by the Force Public Relations Officer, Anietie Iniedu, the decision was taken to preserve the professionalism, integrity, and public image of the police institution.
The directive comes amid growing concerns over the increasing number of officers using social media for entertainment, personal branding, and public commentary while wearing police uniforms or displaying official insignia.
“Officers must immediately desist from any social media activity capable of undermining the Force’s integrity, professionalism, and public image,” the statement said.
Why the New Directive Was Issued
Police authorities said the decision followed a rise in cases involving personnel who post videos, host live sessions, and create online content while clearly identifying themselves as serving officers without authorization.
While acknowledging the role of social media as an important communication tool, the police leadership stressed that online engagement by officers must comply with existing regulations and the Force’s Social Media Policy.
Under the policy, only designated officials are permitted to officially represent the Nigeria Police Force online. These include the Inspector-General of Police, Commissioners of Police, and authorized Public Relations Officers.
Other personnel are not allowed to use their rank, uniform, or official identity on personal social media accounts without approval from the appropriate authorities.
The Force believes the restrictions are necessary to prevent actions that could negatively affect public confidence in the institution or interfere with operational responsibilities.
Officers Risk Disciplinary Action for Violations
The latest directive reinforces an existing policy that has already led to disciplinary measures against several officers this year.
Police authorities recently intensified enforcement of social media regulations, sanctioning at least 10 personnel for various violations. The penalties reportedly ranged from dismissal and demotion to severe reprimands and demobilisation.
One of the most widely discussed incidents involved police officer Anemena Favour, who was demoted from Sergeant to Corporal after conducting a TikTok livestream while dressed in police uniform. Authorities found her guilty of discreditable conduct and disobedience of lawful orders.
Speaking during an interactive session with crime correspondents in Abuja earlier this month, Disu also expressed concern about the growing circulation of police-related content online.
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He warned that indiscriminate recording and sharing of police videos could affect officer morale, distort public perception, and potentially compromise security operations.
With the new directive now in effect, Nigerian police officers who continue to create unauthorized social media content while identifying themselves as members of the Force may face disciplinary measures under existing regulations.
The development marks another step in the Nigeria Police Force’s efforts to strengthen discipline, maintain professional standards, and regulate how its personnel engage with the public in the digital age.
