The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has banned serving officers of the Nigeria Police Force from engaging in unauthorised social media activities, warning that those who violate the directive could face dismissal, demotion, salary forfeiture, or prosecution.
The directive, contained in an internal circular dated June 22, 2026, and marked “Restricted – For Official Use Only,” was addressed to senior police officers nationwide, including Heads of Departments, Zonal Assistant Inspectors-General, Commissioners of Police, the FCT Commissioner of Police, the Commandant of the Police Mobile Force, and other unit commanders.
The police chief expressed concern over the increasing trend of officers using social media platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and similar channels for personal entertainment, self-promotion, and commercial activities.
According to the circular, the Force has observed a growing number of officers creating videos, conducting live broadcasts, and publishing content while in uniform or in circumstances that clearly identify them as members of the Nigeria Police Force.
The directive noted that some personnel have turned social media into platforms for skit-making, monetised content, brand endorsements, and commentary on sensitive policing matters.
“I am directed by the Inspector-General of Police to draw the attention of all Commands, Formations, Departments and Units to the growing and most disturbing trend of police officers creating and publishing videos, conducting live sessions, and participating on social media platforms while in police uniform or in circumstances that identify them as members of the Nigeria Police Force without lawful authority,” the circular stated.
Under the new rules, officers are prohibited from posting videos, photographs, skits, live streams, or any other content while in police uniform or within police facilities without written approval from the appropriate authorities.
The ban also prevents officers from operating personal or anonymous social media accounts for entertainment, content creation, or commercial purposes where such activities exploit their status as police personnel.
Additionally, officers have been barred from making public comments on police operations, investigations, transfers, promotions, disciplinary matters, and other official issues.
The directive further prohibits personnel from accepting sponsorships, endorsement deals, monetisation arrangements, or business partnerships linked to their identity as members of the Force.
Officers were also warned against disclosing classified or sensitive information relating to police operations, deployments, personnel records, and operational strategies.
In a significant move, the Inspector-General placed responsibility on senior officers for violations committed by personnel under their supervision. Commissioners of Police, Assistant Commissioners, Divisional Police Officers, and other supervisory officers have been directed to closely monitor the online activities of officers within their commands and ensure strict compliance with the new policy.
