The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has issued a sweeping directive prohibiting serving personnel of the Nigeria Police Force from engaging in unauthorised social media activities, including creating videos, livestreaming, posting skits, and monetising content on platforms such as TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, Peak Newspaper reports.
The directive, contained in an internal circular dated June 22, 2026, warns that officers who violate the order could face severe disciplinary measures, including interdiction, salary forfeiture, demotion, dismissal from service, and possible criminal prosecution.
According to the circular, the police hierarchy has expressed concern over what it described as the growing trend of officers using social media for entertainment, personal branding, and commercial activities while identifying themselves as members of the Nigeria Police Force.
The directive specifically bars officers from creating or sharing content in police uniforms or within police facilities without express written approval from the Inspector-General of Police or an authorised representative. It also prohibits officers from commenting publicly on police operations, investigations, disciplinary matters, promotions, transfers, and other official issues.
In addition, serving officers are forbidden from accepting sponsorships, endorsement deals, or monetisation arrangements linked to their identity as police personnel.
In a move aimed at ensuring strict compliance, the IGP introduced a policy of supervisory accountability, making Commissioners of Police, Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers, and other senior officers personally responsible for monitoring the social media activities of personnel under their command.
The circular states that supervisory officers who fail to detect, report, or take corrective action against erring personnel could also face disciplinary sanctions, including suspension or demotion.
Commissioners of Police nationwide have been directed to communicate the order to all officers, obtain written acknowledgements, organise sensitisation programmes, and submit compliance reports within specified deadlines.
Furthermore, the Force Intelligence Bureau (FIB) and the Professional Standards Department (X-Squad) have been mandated to monitor social media platforms and identify officers who violate the directive.
The police chief maintained that the Nigeria Police Force remains a disciplined institution whose effectiveness depends on professionalism, institutional integrity, and public confidence, stressing that any conduct capable of undermining the image of the Force would not be tolerated.
The directive takes immediate effect across all commands and formations nationwide.
