IG Bans Police Officers from Unauthorized Social Media Use, Warns of Dismissal

The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has prohibited serving officers of the Nigeria Police Force from engaging in unauthorised social media activities, warning that violators risk dismissal, demotion, salary forfeiture, or prosecution.

The directive, contained in an internal circular dated June 22, 2026, was issued to senior police officers nationwide, including Commissioners of Police, Assistant Inspectors-General, Heads of Departments, and other commanders, amid growing concerns over the increasing use of social media platforms by officers for personal gain and entertainment.

According to the circular, the police leadership is worried about the rising trend of officers creating videos, hosting live sessions, and publishing content on platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube while in uniform or in situations that clearly identify them as police personnel.

The Force noted that some officers have turned social media into avenues for skit-making, monetised content creation, brand endorsements, and commentary on sensitive policing matters.

“I am directed by the Inspector-General of Police to draw the attention of all Commands, Formations, Departments and Units to the growing and most disturbing trend of police officers creating and publishing videos, conducting live sessions, and participating on social media platforms while in police uniform or in circumstances that identify them as members of the Nigeria Police Force without lawful authority,” the circular stated.

Under the new directive, officers are barred from posting videos, photographs, skits, live streams, or any other content while in police uniform or within police facilities without written authorisation from the appropriate authorities.

The order also prohibits officers from operating personal or anonymous social media accounts for entertainment, commercial, or content creation purposes where such activities exploit their identity as members of the Force.

Additionally, personnel have been forbidden from making public comments on police operations, investigations, promotions, transfers, disciplinary matters, or other official issues.

The directive further bans officers from accepting sponsorships, endorsement deals, monetisation arrangements, or business partnerships linked to their status as police personnel.

Officers were equally warned against disclosing classified information relating to police operations, deployments, personnel records, intelligence reports, or operational strategies.

In a significant development, the Inspector-General placed accountability on senior officers for breaches committed by personnel under their supervision. Commissioners of Police, Assistant Commissioners, Divisional Police Officers, and other supervisors have been directed to monitor the online activities of officers within their jurisdictions and ensure full compliance with the directive.

The move is part of efforts by the Nigeria Police Force to protect its professional image, safeguard operational security, and prevent the misuse of social media by serving personnel.