The Nigeria Police Force has stepped up enforcement of its social media policy, disciplining at least 10 officers in the past month for violations.
According to senior police sources, the sanctions ranged from dismissal and demotion to severe reprimand and demobilisation. “The Force is actively monitoring social media platforms and identifying erring officers who are being sanctioned accordingly. So far, 10 officers have been punished. One officer was dismissed, another was reduced in rank, while others received punishments ranging from severe reprimand to demobilisation,” a source disclosed.
One of the most recent cases involved Sergeant Anemena Favour, who was demoted to Corporal after conducting a TikTok live broadcast in police uniform.
She was found guilty of discreditable conduct and disobedience of lawful orders under Police Regulation 370. “She was immediately reduced in rank following the review of an orderly-room proceeding by the Department of Finance and Administration at Force Headquarters,” the source added.
Another official explained that officers given severe reprimands would be barred from promotions or certain benefits for six months. “Such officers will also forfeit additional benefits that may arise within the period,” the source said, noting that the Force had previously sensitised officers about the policy through training at police colleges.
A copy of the Police Social Media Policy warns against unauthorised use of social media by officers, except for specific ranks and designations. It states: “All police personnel are prohibited from identifying themselves directly or indirectly on their social media accounts as police officers, except where they are expressly authorised to do so.”
The policy allows only the Inspector-General of Police, zonal and state commissioners, public relations officers, and a few designated officials to use uniforms, ranks, and insignia on social media.
