The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has placed a nationwide restriction on unauthorised social media activities by officers of the Nigeria Police Force, warning that offenders could face dismissal, demotion, salary forfeiture and prosecution.
The directive, contained in an internal circular dated June 22, 2026, prohibits officers from using platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and YouTube for content creation while presenting themselves as police personnel without approval.
The circular, marked “Restricted – For Official Use Only,” was circulated to senior police officers, including zonal Assistant Inspectors-General, Commissioners of Police and commanders of various police units.
The Force said it had observed a rise in officers producing videos, hosting live sessions and creating monetised content while in uniform or in locations that associate them with the police.
Under the new order, officers are banned from posting skits, pictures, livestreams or other content while wearing police uniforms or within police facilities unless they receive written authorisation.
The directive also prevents officers from running personal or anonymous accounts for entertainment or commercial purposes when such activities rely on their identity as law enforcement personnel.
Police officers are further barred from making public comments on sensitive issues involving police operations, investigations, deployments, promotions and disciplinary matters.
The IGP also prohibited officers from accepting sponsorships, endorsements or financial arrangements connected to their position as members of the police force.
As part of the enforcement measures, senior officers, including Commissioners of Police and Divisional Police Officers, will be held responsible for monitoring the online conduct of personnel under their supervision.
The Force Intelligence Bureau and the X-Squad have been assigned to monitor social media platforms and identify officers who violate the directive.
Officers who already operate accounts linked to their police identity have been given 14 days to deactivate them or remove references connecting them to the Nigeria Police Force.
The police authorities directed all commands to begin immediate implementation of the policy, issue internal notices within seven days and ensure officers sign documents confirming awareness of the directive.
Compliance reports detailing enforcement measures are expected within 14 days.
The IGP warned that violations could attract sanctions including interdiction, salary forfeiture, demotion, dismissal and possible legal action, stating that the policy is aimed at strengthening discipline, professionalism and public confidence in the police force.
