The directive was born out of growing concern within the police hierarchy about how many officers are now building personal brands, chasing views, and even earning money online while identifying themselves as policemen. Senior officers argue that this trend is damaging the image of the institution. When an officer posts comedy skits, dances, or commentary in uniform, it blurs the line between professional duty and entertainment. For an organisation that relies heavily on discipline and public trust, that line matters. The IGP made it known that the Nigeria Police Force is not a content creation agency, and any conduct that reduces its authority or makes it look unserious will be treated as a breach of professional standards.
Under the new order, officers are barred from appearing in police uniform or filming within police facilities unless they have written approval from the Inspector-General or someone he authorises. The restriction also extends to speech. Officers are not allowed to comment publicly on ongoing operations, investigations, disciplinary cases, promotions, transfers, or any other internal matter. The idea is to prevent sensitive information from leaking and to stop individual opinions from being mistaken for official police positions. Another major part of the directive targets money. Officers cannot accept sponsorships, endorsement deals, or any form of monetisation that ties back to their status as police personnel. The concern is that financial incentives could compromise judgment or create conflicts of interest.
To make sure the ban is not just paper, the IGP introduced a policy of supervisory accountability. Commissioners of Police, Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers, and other senior officers are now personally responsible for what their subordinates post online. If an officer under their command violates the directive and the supervisor fails to notice, report, or take action, that supervisor can also be punished. Sanctions for supervisors range from suspension to demotion. For the officers who break the rule, the penalties are even heavier. The circular lists interdiction, salary forfeiture, demotion, dismissal from service, and possible criminal prosecution as possible outcomes depending on the severity of the violation.
Commands across the country have been told to act fast. Commissioners must communicate the directive to every officer, collect written acknowledgements, run sensitisation programmes, and send compliance reports back within set deadlines. At the same time, the Force Intelligence Bureau and the Professional Standards Department, also called X-Squad, have been ordered to actively monitor social media platforms for violations. Officers who think they can post anonymously may find that the monitoring teams are already watching.
The IGP stressed that the police remain a disciplined institution whose effectiveness depends on professionalism, integrity, and the confidence of the public. In his view, no officer’s personal brand or online income should come at the cost of the Force’s reputation. The directive takes effect immediately and applies to every command and formation nationwide. For many officers who had built followings online, it marks the end of an era where the uniform could be used as content. For the police leadership, it is an attempt to restore order, protect sensitive information, and remind everyone that the job comes with rules that extend beyond the station.
