The Oyo State Police Command has dismissed reports suggesting that the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Disu, issued a “shoot-on-sight” order against individuals found carrying illegal firearms, describing the reports as a misrepresentation of the IGP’s remarks.
Speaking on Meto Mofin, Success FM’s civil enlightenment programme, on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Olushola Olayinka Ayanlade, clarified that no such directive was issued by the Inspector-General.
According to Ayanlade, the reports circulating in some sections of the media were taken out of context and do not accurately reflect the position of the Nigeria Police Force. He explained that the misunderstanding originated from comments made by the IGP during a stakeholders’ meeting held in Makurdi, Benue State, on July 24, 2026.
The police spokesperson stressed that the Inspector-General’s remarks were aimed at strengthening efforts to tackle the proliferation of illegal firearms and violent crimes within the framework of the law, rather than authorising officers to summarily shoot individuals found in possession of illegal weapons.
Ayanlade urged members of the public to disregard misleading interpretations of the IGP’s comments and instead rely on verified information released through official police communication channels. He noted that the Nigeria Police Force remains committed to carrying out its constitutional responsibilities while respecting the rule of law and the rights of all citizens.
During the programme, the PPRO also shed light on the issue of self-defence, explaining that Nigerian law recognises an individual’s right to protect themselves or others when faced with an immediate and unlawful threat to life or serious bodily harm. However, he cautioned that any force used in self-defence must be reasonable and proportionate to the threat encountered.
He further advised residents to avoid taking the law into their own hands and to promptly report criminal activities or security concerns to the nearest police station or other relevant security agencies for appropriate action.
The clarification comes amid public reactions to reports alleging that the Inspector-General had directed officers to shoot anyone found with illegal firearms. The Oyo State Police Command reiterated that no such blanket “shoot-on-sight” order exists and encouraged citizens to verify security-related information before sharing it to prevent misinformation and unnecessary panic.
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