Police Debunk ‘Shoot-on-Sight’ Order, Clarify IGP’s Benue Remarks

The Nigeria Police Force has dismissed reports claiming that the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Tunde Disu, ordered officers to shoot anyone found with illegal firearms on sight.

In a statement posted on the Force’s verified social media platforms on Saturday, the Police explained that during a stakeholders’ meeting in Makurdi, Benue State, the IGP only reminded officers that legally authorised security personnel are the only individuals permitted to carry firearms.
According to the statement, the IGP also drew attention to the growing spread of illegal weapons, describing it as a major factor fueling insecurity, including kidnapping, armed robbery, banditry, cult violence and other violent crimes across the country.
The Police further stressed that the use of firearms by officers remains governed by Force Order 237, which clearly outlines the lawful circumstances under which firearms may be used while carrying out official duties. The statement noted that the IGP emphasised the need for officers to operate strictly within the law and follow established rules on the use of force.
Rejecting media reports suggesting otherwise, the Force stated that the Inspector-General never issued a “shoot-on-sight” directive during the Makurdi meeting. It described the reports as misleading, saying the IGP’s comments had been taken out of context and misrepresented to the public.
The statement reiterated that at no point did the Inspector-General instruct officers to shoot anyone simply because they were found in possession of an illegal firearm, maintaining that all police actions must remain within the provisions of the law and Force Order 237.