Jun 23, 2026

IGP Disu Cracks Down on Rogue Cops' Viral Social Media Shenanigans

By Afolabi Olaiya Idowu in news

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Abuja, Nigeria – June 23, 2026—In a decisive move to safeguard the Nigeria Police Force’s (NPF) reputation amid rising digital indiscipline, Inspector-General of Police IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu has issued a sweeping prohibition on unauthorized social media activities by serving officers and men.

The directive, released today via the official @PoliceNG handle and detailed in accompanying press materials featuring the IGP’s portrait against the national flag, targets the growing trend of police personnel creating and publishing videos, conducting live sessions, posting skits, and engaging in other content while in uniform or otherwise identifiable as NPF members.

Context and Concerns Driving the Ban

This intervention comes against a backdrop of increasing public scrutiny of law enforcement conduct online. Officers have been observed producing entertainment-focused material, monetizing content on platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, Facebook Live, and YouTube, and commenting publicly on official matters—sometimes disclosing sensitive operational details or using their positions for personal promotion and commercial gain.

IGP Disu, who assumed leadership with a strong emphasis on professionalism and reforms under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, stressed that while social media is a valuable tool for communication and public engagement, its misuse by personnel risks undermining the Force’s integrity, discipline, and public trust.

The order explicitly references adherence to the Nigeria Police Force Social Media Policy, the Nigeria Police Act 2020, Police Regulations, and related disciplinary frameworks, including the Cybercrime Act.

Key prohibitions include:

- Creating or sharing unauthorized content in a police uniform or on police premises without express written approval from the IGP or a designated representative.

- Publicly commenting on official police operations, disciplinary matters, internal affairs, or national security issues.

- Operating accounts (real-name or pseudonymous) that exploit police identity for entertainment, branding, or financial purposes.

- Any activities that could bring the Force into disrepute.

Enforcement Measures and Accountability

To drive compliance, the IGP has tasked Commissioners of Police, Heads of Departments, Commanders, and supervisory officers with immediate sensitization and strict enforcement. Supervisors will face accountability for lapses in their commands.

The Force Intelligence Department (FID) and Professional Standards Department (X-Squad) have been directed to ramp up monitoring of social media platforms to identify and address violations.

Potential sanctions for defaulters are severe: suspension, salary forfeiture, demotion, dismissal, and possible criminal prosecution.

Broader Implications in Police Reforms

This directive aligns with ongoing efforts to professionalize the NPF, including investments in training, intelligence, modern equipment, and accountability mechanisms.

Recent actions—such as dismantling illegal checkpoints, addressing extortion, and responding to viral misconduct videos—signal a push toward citizen-focused policing and restored public confidence.

Human Angle: For many Nigerians, encounters with police online have ranged from entertaining to alarming—viral skits providing comic relief on one hand but eroding trust when they blur lines between duty and personal branding on the other.

A veteran officer, speaking anonymously, noted the tension: “Social media amplifies both the best and worst of us. This policy draws a clear line to protect the institution while allowing proper channels for engagement.”

CSP Anietie Okokon Edem Iniedu, Force Public Relations Officer, signed the release from Force Headquarters in Abuja, reaffirming the NPF’s commitment to discipline, responsible communication, and maintaining institutional integrity.

As digital platforms continue to reshape public perception of authority, this bold step by IGP Disu underscores a core truth in modern policing: credibility is not just earned on the streets but guarded fiercely in the feeds.

The Force has assured the public of its dedication to transparency and service, inviting continued partnership in building a more professional and trustworthy institution.