The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has disclosed that 140 police officers lost their lives in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) within the last year while on duty.
Disu said the fatalities occurred through a combination of violent attacks, road accidents, and other duty-related incidents, underscoring the high-risk nature of policing in the nation’s capital.
He made the revelation during an interactive session with members of the Crime Correspondents Association of Nigeria (CCAN) in Jabi, Abuja.
The police chief urged greater responsibility in the recording and circulation of police-related video content, warning that misuse of such materials could damage officers’ morale, distort public perception, and interfere with ongoing security operations.
According to him, indiscriminate filming of officers during routine and sensitive operations has become increasingly common and poses operational and psychological risks.
“Police officers operate under extremely challenging conditions, often risking their lives to protect citizens and maintain public safety,” he said, stressing that public conduct and media coverage should not discourage personnel committed to duty.
Concern Over Misleading Online Content
Disu also raised concerns about the circulation of old or manipulated videos being passed off as recent events, noting that such content fuels misinformation, public panic, and unnecessary tension.
He urged social media users and the general public to avoid recycling outdated footage capable of undermining national security efforts.
“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,” he said.
Reaffirming the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to accountability and professionalism, Disu said officers found guilty of misconduct would continue to face disciplinary action in line with established laws.
He, however, insisted that officers performing lawful duties must also be protected from harassment and misinformation.
“We have consistently demonstrated our commitment to ending impunity within the Force,” he said, adding that genuine complaints against personnel would be addressed decisively.
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The IG noted that policing in Nigeria has become increasingly demanding, with officers working long hours under intense pressure and security threats.
He said many personnel continue to make significant sacrifices, including risking their lives, to ensure public safety and stability.
Disu also called for sustained collaboration between the police and the media to enhance transparency, trust, and effective communication on security matters.
He described journalists as key partners in the fight against insecurity and encouraged responsible reporting that supports national stability.
Earlier, Chairman of CCAN Festus Fifen reaffirmed the commitment of crime correspondents to professional and factual reporting in support of national security efforts.
He also called for improved access to timely and credible information from the police to reduce misinformation during security incidents.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.