IG Urges Nigerians to Shun Use of Social Media to Report Police Misconduct Despite Concerns Over Transparency

The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has called on Nigerians to avoid reporting police misconduct via social media and instead direct their grievances through the Police Complaints Response Unit (PCRU).

He said this while speaking at the PPROs/Police Communication Experts’ Conference in Asaba yesterday.,

He stressed that addressing complaints through official channels ensures accuracy and accountability, countering the risk of misinformation.

We appeal to the public not to resort to social media when reporting the conduct of police officers but rather use the Police Complaints Response Unit, Egbetokun said.

He expressed concern that the widespread use of social media to air grievances often results in the dissemination of unverified information, which he warned could damage the reputation and integrity of the police force.

Acknowledging the influential role of social media in shaping public opinion, the IG emphasised the need for a more structured approach to addressing complaints.

The IG underscored the police force’s commitment to transparency and accountability, stating that initiatives such as the PPROs/Police Communication Experts’ Conference are part of broader police reforms to restore public trust.

I’m glad to address the PPROs/Police Communication Experts’ Conference. I thank the governor for hosting this conference. This conference is part of police reform, aimed at building trust and respect, which will, in turn, help us gain public trust, he added.

The conference, hosted by Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, focused on improving communication between the police and the public, particularly on countering misinformation.

Oborevwori highlighted the unique challenges police officers face in states like Delta and Lagos, where effective communication is critical to maintaining public order.

Despite the IG’s call to avoid social media reporting, some Nigerians remain sceptical about the effectiveness of existing complaint mechanisms, citing past unaddressed grievances.

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