Police Officers Under Fire As IGP Issues Tough Warning Over Online Conduct, VIP Escort Misuse

The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has issued a strict directive to police officers, warning them against posting photos of themselves in uniform on social media platforms.

According to Naija News, the directive also prohibits the sharing of official police documents online in an effort to regulate officers’ online activities and uphold the integrity of the force.

In addition to social media restrictions, the IGP’s directive forbids officers from carrying personal items such as luggage or umbrellas for Very Important Persons (VIPs)—a move aimed at curbing what has been deemed inappropriate conduct by officers serving politicians and other high-profile individuals.

An internal memo dated May 3, 2025, obtained by SaharaReporters, was issued to personnel of the Police Mobile Force (No. 13PMF Squadron) in Makurdi, Benue State. The document, signed by Commanding Officer ACP Hassan S. Aliyu, reinforced the IGP’s stance:

“The Inspector General of Police has reiterated his warning regarding the NPF Social Media Policy and has directed that no police personnel should use pictures of themselves in uniform on any social media platform. Additionally, publishing official documents online is strictly prohibited. Officers attached to VIPs are also warned against carrying any VIP’s luggage or umbrellas. Violators of these directives will face severe sanctions.”

This order follows growing public scrutiny of police conduct online, amid a surge of viral content portraying officers in compromising or subservient roles—particularly those attached to high-ranking officials.

One notable incident involved a video showing Mobile Police (MOPOL) officers receiving cash payments from foreign workers at a Chinese mining company. The video depicted a Chinese national distributing ₦5,000 to each officer, while a woman and a young girl—believed to be the foreigner’s family members—also handed cash to officers.