ABUJA — Nigeria’s Inspector General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Disu, has ordered police commissioners and zonal commanders nationwide to engage journalists regularly to counter fake news and misinformation capable of undermining public confidence and electoral security ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Disu issued the directive on Wednesday, November 11, 2026 at a strategic meeting with Deputy Inspectors General of Police, Assistant Inspectors General of Police and Commissioners of Police at the Force Headquarters, Abuja.
He stressed that proactive communication with the media was critical as political activities intensify, noting that sustained interaction with journalists would enable police commands to promptly clarify security developments, counter false narratives and mitigate the threats misinformation poses to public safety and confidence in the electoral process.
Reaffirming the Force’s political neutrality, Disu declared that the Nigeria Police would not serve as an instrument in the hands of politicians or political parties.
“We will remain neutral. Ensure the safety and security of the electorate before, during and after the election,” he said.
He warned that any police officer found engaging in partisan political activities would face disciplinary action in accordance with the law.
The IGP also announced the suspension of leave for all officers involved in election duties until after the elections to ensure adequate manpower and operational readiness.
On accountability and human rights protection, Disu directed commissioners to ensure that reported cases of abuse were properly documented, investigated and resolved within a reasonable period.
He further ordered all police zones and commands to establish accessible and visible Complaints Response Units to enable members of the public to report misconduct and seek redress.
The police chief also tasked state commissioners with ensuring prompt payment of death benefits to families of fallen officers and personally visiting the affected families to demonstrate the Force’s support and solidarity.
Earlier in his address, Disu acknowledged achievements recorded by the Force but stressed the need to intensify efforts against prevailing security threats, particularly banditry in some parts of the country.
He also warned commissioners against travelling outside their respective states without obtaining express approval from his office.
The IGP commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his continued support and commitment to strengthening the Nigeria Police Force’s capacity to combat crime and maintain security nationwide.
The directive places regular police-media engagement at the centre of the Force’s communication strategy ahead of the 2027 elections, recognising the importance of timely, credible information in checking rumours, correcting false reports and sustaining public trust.
