Nigerian Police deny issuing 'fire at will' directive in Benue — Inspector General

The Nigeria Police Force has provided clarification on comments made by Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, regarding the use of firearms by police officers, stating that he did not give a "shoot-on-sight" order for individuals carrying illegal arms.

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Multiple media outlets reported on Friday that Disu had instructed police officers to shoot on sight anyone found with illegal firearms, following his remarks at a stakeholders' meeting in Makurdi, Benue State.

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However, in a clarification issued on Saturday, the Force explained that Disu was referring to Force Order 237, which outlines the legal and operational conditions for police officers to use firearms.

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The clarification, titled "Clarification: What the Inspector-General of Police Actually Said in Makurdi," was accompanied by a video of Disu's remarks at the meeting, providing context to his comments.

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The Force stated that Disu did not issue a "shoot-on-sight" order, but rather emphasized that officers have been briefed on Force Order 237 and are aware of when to deploy their weapons in accordance with established Rules of Engagement.

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Disu also stressed that the possession of illegal arms and killings would not be tolerated, and the public was encouraged to view the video of his remarks for full context.

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In the video, Disu said, "We have given instructions to our men, and we are the only ones recognized to carry arms around, no other person is entitled to do that."

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He further stated, "You cannot move around freely carrying arms as if there is no law and order in this country, it will not be tolerated, we have given them necessary instructions."

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Disu also mentioned Force Order 237, saying police officers have been told they don't need to wait for any superior order and know when to deploy their firearms.

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He added that the police are tired of losing their men and that officers have been instructed and trained to take necessary action.

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An independent check on policinglaw.info revealed that Force Order 237 is a set of regulations governing the use of force and firearms by the Nigeria Police Force.

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According to the regulations, officers may legally deploy firearms in circumstances such as self-defence, the escape of felony suspects, or immediate armed threats.