RismadarVoice Reporters, July 25, 2026
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has refuted widespread reports claiming that the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Olatunji Disu, issued a “shoot-on-sight” directive against individuals found carrying illegal firearms in Benue State, describing the reports as a misrepresentation of his comments.
The clarification followed media reports making rounds that the IGP had instructed police officers to immediately shoot anyone seen with illegal weapons during a stakeholders’ security meeting held in Makurdi, the Benue State capital.
In a statement issued by the Force Headquarters titled “Clarification: What the Inspector-General of Police Actually Said in Makurdi,” the Police explained that the IGP’s remarks were taken out of context.
According to the Police, the Inspector-General did not issue any blanket “shoot-on-sight” order but rather reminded officers of the provisions of Force Order 237, the operational guideline that regulates the lawful use of force and firearms by personnel of the Nigeria Police Force.
The Force stated that the IGP emphasised that officers have already been adequately briefed on the provisions of Force Order 237 and understand the circumstances under which they are legally permitted to deploy firearms in line with established Rules of Engagement.
The Police further noted that the Inspector-General reiterated the Force’s determination to tackle the proliferation of illegal firearms and violent crimes, stressing that unlawful possession of weapons and acts of violence would no longer be tolerated.
Addressing stakeholders in Makurdi, the IGP stated that only legally authorised security personnel are permitted to bear arms in public.
“We are the only ones recognised to carry arms around. No other person is entitled to do that,” he said, adding that individuals cannot move freely with firearms in disregard of the country’s laws.
He explained that police officers have been sufficiently trained on the application of Force Order 237 and do not require fresh directives from superior officers before acting in situations where the law permits the use of firearms.
The Inspector-General also expressed concern over the increasing loss of security personnel in the line of duty, saying the Force could no longer tolerate attacks on police officers, soldiers and other security operatives.
“We are tired of losing our men. We are tired of police officers, soldiers and other members of security agencies dying anyhow. They have been instructed and trained to do what is necessary,” he said.
Meanwhile, Force Order 237, which governs the use of force by the Nigeria Police Force, outlines the legal conditions under which officers may discharge firearms, including situations involving self-defence, protection of lives, prevention of serious violent crimes, or to stop suspects posing an imminent threat.
The regulation is intended to ensure that the use of lethal force remains lawful, proportionate and strictly guided by operational procedures.
The Nigeria Police Force, however, urged the public and media organisations to rely on the full context of official statements to avoid misinformation capable of creating unnecessary public anxiety or misrepresenting the operational directives of the Force.
