The Nigeria Police Force has denied rumours making the rounds that the Inspector-General of Police has ordered the citizens to clamp down on men of the Nigerian Police during stop and search.

News broke late last week that the IGP has ordered for beating and assaulting men of the Nigeria Police who attempt to continue on the debunked stop and search.

According to a statement signed by the Federal Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, mnipr, mipra, fCAI, the Nigeria Police has distanced themselves from such acts and considered it illegal for anyone to assault a Nigerian Police.

“The Nigeria Police Force wishes to address a viral fake news story that has emerged, claiming that Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM., has instructed citizens to physically assault and throw stones at police officers who request to search their phones.

“This claim is entirely false and has no basis in reality. The IGP has not issued any such directive encouraging violence against law enforcement officers.

“Instead, he has called on citizens to report instances of police misconduct through appropriate channels.

“This approach underscores the importance of accountability and maintaining the rule of law, rather than resorting to violent actions.

“Members of the public are urged to make use of the following Police helplines & contacts to lay complaints whenever necessary: +2347056792065, +2349133333785, +2349133333786, @PoliceNG on X, @ngpolice on Facebook, and @nigeriapoliceforce on Instagram. Citizens can also contact us by mail through; [email protected] and reach us through the police website at npf.gov.ng

“Members of the public are advised to remain vigilant against misinformation and verify information through credible sources.

“The Nigeria Police Force remains committed to fostering a cooperative and trustful relationship between the police and the communities they serve.” The statement reads.