IGP bans police officers from TikTok, Facebook, others, warns of dismissal, salary forfeiture

The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has issued a sweeping directive banning serving officers of the Nigeria Police Force from engaging in unauthorised social media activities, warning that violators risk dismissal, demotion, salary forfeiture and possible prosecution.

The directive affects officers using platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube and other social media channels for content creation while identifying as members of the police force.

The order was contained in an internal circular dated June 22, 2026, marked “Restricted – For Official Use Only,” and addressed to senior police authorities across the country, including zonal Assistant Inspectors-General, Commissioners of Police, commanders of the Police Mobile Force and other units.

According to the circular, the Force has observed an increasing trend of officers creating and publishing videos, conducting live sessions and engaging in monetised content creation while in uniform or in situations that identify them as police personnel.

The directive specifically prohibits officers from posting skits, photographs, live streams or any form of content in police uniform or within police facilities without written approval.

It also bars officers from operating personal or anonymous accounts for entertainment or commercial purposes where such accounts exploit their identity as law enforcement personnel.

The ban further extends to public commentary on sensitive police matters, including operations, investigations, deployments, promotions and disciplinary issues.

Under the new order, officers are also prohibited from accepting sponsorships, endorsement deals or monetisation arrangements linked to their status as police officers.

In a significant enforcement measure, the IGP introduced vicarious liability, making senior officers responsible for monitoring the online activities of personnel under their command.

Commissioners of Police, DPOs and other supervisory officers who fail to detect or report violations may also face disciplinary action.

Commands across the country have been directed to implement the policy immediately, issue internal directives within seven days, and ensure all officers sign acknowledgement forms confirming receipt and understanding of the order.

Compliance reports are expected within 14 days, detailing enforcement actions and monitoring strategies.

The Force Intelligence Bureau and the X-Squad (Professional Standards Unit) have been tasked with monitoring social media platforms to identify violators.

Officers already operating accounts linked to their identity as police personnel have been given a 14-day ultimatum to deactivate such accounts or remove all references to the Nigeria Police Force.

The directive states that sanctions will include interdiction, salary forfeiture, demotion, dismissal and possible prosecution, depending on the severity of the offence.

It added that the policy takes immediate effect nationwide as part of efforts to restore discipline, professionalism and public trust within the police force.

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