IGP Seeks Balance Between Accountability and Police Operational Safety

Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has cautioned content creators, social media users and members of the public against the indiscriminate recording and circulation of police-related videos, warning that such actions could negatively affect security operations and weaken officers’ morale.

Speaking during an interactive session with crime correspondents in Abuja, the police chief expressed concern over the growing trend of recording officers during routine and sensitive operations and posting the footage online without proper context. He noted that while accountability remains important, public engagement with police activities must be handled responsibly.

Disu stressed that the Nigeria Police Force remains committed to transparency, accountability and respect for human rights. However, he said public scrutiny should be balanced with the realities of policing and the welfare of officers who often work under difficult and dangerous conditions.

According to him, police personnel make significant sacrifices in the line of duty, frequently risking their lives to protect citizens and maintain public safety. He warned that actions capable of discouraging dedicated officers could ultimately affect the effectiveness of law enforcement efforts.

The IGP also raised concerns about the circulation of old, misleading or manipulated videos falsely presented as recent incidents. He said such content fuels misinformation, creates unnecessary panic and undermines public confidence in security institutions. He urged social media users to avoid sharing materials that could threaten national security or distort facts.

Disu reiterated that the Force would continue to sanction officers found guilty of misconduct in line with established laws and professional standards. He also pledged stronger engagement with the media to improve transparency and public trust. Earlier, Chairman of the Crime Correspondents Association of Nigeria, Festus Fifen, called for closer collaboration between journalists and the police to ensure timely access to credible information and reduce the spread of misinformation during security incidents.


Elijah Adeyemi