The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has issued a fresh directive barring serving officers and men of the Nigeria Police Force from engaging in unauthorised social media activities, including video creation, live streaming, skit production, and content monetisation across platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.
The order, contained in an internal circular dated June 22, 2026, warned that any officer who violates the directive will face strict disciplinary measures, including interdiction, salary suspension, demotion, dismissal, and possible criminal prosecution.
The circular, marked SB:4065/IGP.SEC/FHQ/ABJ/VOL.1/11 and classified as “Restricted – For Official Use Only,” was issued from the Office of the Inspector-General of Police at Force Headquarters, Louis Edet House, Abuja.
It was distributed to all relevant police formations nationwide, including Zonal AIGs, State Commissioners of Police, the FCT Command, the Police Mobile Force Command, and other units.
According to the document, the police leadership expressed concern over the increasing trend of officers using social media platforms without authorization, especially while in uniform or in ways that identify them as members of the Force.
The circular noted that some officers have been using platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, Facebook Live, and YouTube for entertainment, self-promotion, and financial gain.
It also stated that certain personnel have been operating accounts under real names or pseudonyms, commenting on internal police matters, and engaging in activities capable of bringing the Force into disrepute.
The directive further stressed that such conduct violates existing regulations, including the Nigeria Police Act 2020, the Police Social Media Policy, Police Service Commission rules, and the Cybercrime Act.
Under the new rules, officers are prohibited from creating or sharing videos, photos, skits, or livestreams in uniform or within police premises without written approval from the Inspector-General or an authorised representative.
They are also barred from operating personal or anonymous accounts for commercial or entertainment purposes that leverage their identity as police officers.
In addition, officers are not allowed to publicly comment on investigations, postings, promotions, disciplinary actions, or any internal police affairs.
The directive also forbids acceptance of sponsorships, endorsements, or monetisation deals linked to their status as serving police personnel.
