The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has read the riot act to content creators, social media users and members of the public against indiscriminate recording and circulation of police-related videos.
Disu sounded the warning during an interactive session with Crime Correspondents in Abuja on Sunday where he expressed concern about enthusiasts recording police officers during routine and sensitive operations and posting such content online without proper context.
This, the police chief said, has become a national sports that does not take officers into consideration.
“Recordings and public engagements involving police officers must be done responsibly and should not be used to harass officers or undermine operational effectiveness.
“Police officers operate under extremely challenging conditions, often risking their lives to protect citizens and maintain public safety.
“It is important that public conduct and media coverage do not discourage officers who are committed to doing the right thing,” he stated.
Speaking further, Disu also warned against the circulation of old or manipulated videos falsely presented as recent incidents, saying such content fuels misinformation and public anxiety.
“We urge members of the public and social media users to refrain from recycling old or manipulated videos capable of creating panic or undermining national security efforts.
“Such actions are harmful to the country’s image and stability,” he added.
