IGP Warns Against Misuse of Police Videos

The 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 videos involving police officers, warning that such actions could undermine security operations and negatively affect the morale of personnel.

According to reports gathered by RMNews360, the police chief raised concerns over the growing trend of recording officers during routine and sensitive operations and sharing such footage online without proper context.

Disu spoke on Sunday during an interactive session with members of the Crime Correspondents Association of Nigeria in Abuja.

Police Raise Concerns Over Online Recordings

Addressing journalists, the Inspector-General acknowledged the importance of accountability and transparency in policing but stressed that public engagements involving police officers must be conducted responsibly.

“Yes, accountability is important, and we remain committed to transparency. However, recordings and public engagements involving police officers must be done responsibly and should not be used to harass officers or undermine operational effectiveness,” he said.

The police chief noted that while citizens have the right to scrutinise public institutions, such scrutiny should be balanced with operational realities and the welfare of officers carrying out their duties.

He argued that the increasing circulation of police-related content online without adequate context could create misconceptions about ongoing operations and affect public confidence in security institutions.

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Officers Deserve Protection, Says Disu

Disu emphasised that police personnel often work under difficult and dangerous conditions while protecting lives and property across the country.

According to him, officers continue to make significant sacrifices, including risking their lives in the line of duty, and should not be subjected to actions that could discourage them from performing their responsibilities effectively.

“Police officers operate under extremely challenging conditions, often risking their lives to protect citizens and maintain public safety.

“It is important that public conduct and media coverage do not discourage officers who are committed to doing the right thing,” he stated.

The IGP added that law enforcement personnel carrying out lawful assignments deserve protection from harassment and deliberate attempts to misrepresent their actions.

Police Warn Against Fake and Recycled Videos

The police chief also expressed concern over the circulation of old, edited or manipulated videos falsely presented as recent incidents.

He warned that such content contributes to misinformation, fuels public anxiety and could undermine ongoing security efforts.

“We urge members of the public and social media users to refrain from recycling old or manipulated videos capable of creating panic or undermining national security efforts.

“Such actions are harmful to the country’s image and stability,” Disu said.

The warning comes amid growing concerns about the role of social media in spreading unverified information, particularly during security incidents and law enforcement operations.

Force Reaffirms Commitment to Accountability

Despite his concerns, the Inspector-General reiterated the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to accountability, professionalism and respect for human rights.

He assured Nigerians that officers found guilty of misconduct would continue to face disciplinary measures in line with established laws and professional standards.

“We have consistently demonstrated our commitment to ending impunity within the Force, and we will continue to address complaints against personnel professionally and decisively.

“At the same time, officers carrying out lawful duties must also be protected from harassment and deliberate misinformation,” he added.

Disu further pledged to strengthen communication between the police and the public through sustained engagement with the media.

Media Calls for Stronger Collaboration

Earlier at the event, the Chairman of the Crime Correspondents Association of Nigeria, Festus Fifen, called for closer collaboration between journalists and the police.

Fifen stressed the importance of timely access to credible information during security incidents, noting that accurate communication helps prevent speculation and the spread of false information.

He urged security agencies and the media to continue working together to enhance public trust and ensure Nigerians receive verified information on matters affecting national security.

The latest remarks by the Inspector-General highlight the growing challenge of balancing transparency, accountability and operational effectiveness in an era where social media has become a major source of news and public engagement.

Segun Lasisi

A Lagos-based journalist with a passion for disseminating factual information and a deep appreciation for good music, good food, movies, and beautiful cars. He hopes to travel the world someday, documenting its beauty and diverse cultures through his storytelling.