The Nigeria Police have dismissed a viral fake news story claiming that Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, instructed citizens to physically assault and throw stones at police officers who requested to search their phones.
 
According to a statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, 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,” Adejobi emphasised.
 
Instead, the IGP has urged citizens to report instances of police misconduct through appropriate channels, promoting accountability and maintaining the rule of law. 
 
“We encourage members of the public to report any instances of police misconduct through our helplines and contacts,” Adejobi said.
 
The Nigeria Police Force has provided several channels for citizens to lay complaints, including phone numbers (+2347056792065, +2349133333785, +2349133333786), social media handles (@PoliceNG on X, @ngpolice on Facebook, and @nigeriapoliceforce on Instagram), and email (pressforabuja@police.gov.ng). Citizens can also visit the police website at npf.gov.ng.
 
Adejobi advised members of the public to remain vigilant against misinformation and verify information through credible sources. 
 
“We are committed to fostering a cooperative and trustful relationship between the police and the communities they serve,” he concluded.