The Police Force Headquarters in Abuja has dismissed as fake news and deliberate misrepresentation of the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Disu, reports that he ordered police personnel to “shoot anyone with illegal firearms”.
The IGP did not issue such a directive during a meeting with stakeholders in Makurdi, Benue State, Force Public Relations Officer, Anietie Iniedu, disclosed this.
In a statement, Iniedu said the IGP’s remarks at the meeting had been misrepresented to the public.
The FPRO said that while the IGP only reminded officers that only duly authorised security personnel are allowed by law to bear firearms, he also drew attention to the growing proliferation of illegal weapons used by criminals to perpetrate kidnapping, armed robbery, banditry, cult-related violence and other serious crimes.
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He said that the Inspector-General had stated that the use of firearms by police officers was strictly governed by Force Order 237, which set out the lawful circumstances under which police officers could use firearms in the execution of their duties.
The statement said that the IGP underscored the importance of officers operating within the confines of the law and following the approved rules on the use of force.
“The Inspector-General did not give any ‘shoot-on-sight’ order. “At no time did he order officers to shoot anyone just because they were found in possession of an illegal firearm,” the statement said.
The Force reiterated its commitment to protecting the lives, rights and freedom of all Nigerians, adding that police personnel are expected to discharge their responsibilities professionally, lawfully and with the full respect for human rights and the Constitution.
It also called on media organisations and the public to verify security-related information before publishing or circulating it, warning that inaccurate reports could generate unnecessary panic, misinform the public and undermine public confidence in security institutions.
The release also urged the public to watch the entire video of the Inspector-General’s speech, saying it correctly reflects what he said and places it in the proper context.
The Force reiterated its commitment to enforce the law in a fair, professional manner and within the confines of the Constitution and other extant laws.