Police Clarifies No 'Shoot-on-Sight' Order by IGP Disu

The Nigeria Police Force issued a clarification regarding remarks made by Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Rilwan Disu at a stakeholders’ meeting in Makurdi, Benue State. Contrary to reports suggesting he ordered police officers to shoot on sight anyone carrying illegal firearms, the Force stated that Disu was referencing Force Order 237, which governs the legal and operational conditions for the use of firearms by police officers.

The clarification emphasized that officers are trained to know when to deploy their weapons in accordance with established Rules of Engagement. Disu expressed the need for strict enforcement against illegal arms possession and highlighted the importance of police safety, stating, “We are tired of losing our men.” The Police Force encouraged the public to view a video of Disu’s actual remarks for context, reinforcing that police officers have been instructed on the appropriate use of firearms without waiting for superior orders.