The Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone 2 Command, Mr Olohundare Jimoh, has warned against the use of social media to spread misinformation to discredit the Nigeria Police Force (NPF).
Jimoh gave the warning on Thursday when members of the Peace, Progress and Unity Global Initiative (PPUGI) paid a courtesy visit to Zone 2 Command Headquarters, Onikan, Lagos.
According to him, some individuals deliberately misuse social media platforms to spread misinformation, incite violence and create disaffection between the police and members of the public for personal and monetary gains.
“Social media should serve as a platform for educating and informing the public rather than being used to promote false narratives capable of undermining national security.
“It is clearly seen that quite a number of people have become social media bandits. While constructive criticism is welcomed, deliberate falsehoods aimed at discrediting security institutions should not be tolerated,” he said.
Jimoh said the police remained open to genuine criticism that would help improve service delivery, noting that the force would continue to correct identified shortcomings.
He commended PPUGI for identifying with the command and recognized the sacrifices of officers and men in protecting lives and property.
The police boss described the visit as unprecedented, saying it was the first time he had witnessed an organization publicly appreciating the police in such a manner.
According to him, stronger collaboration between civil society organizations and security agencies will enhance public trust, strengthen community policing and improve national security.
The AIG also lauded the organization’s emphasis on mental health and welfare of police officers, stressing that officers must remain physically and mentally fit to effectively discharge their responsibilities.
“A dead brain cannot be a police officer. Protecting others starts with protecting your own health and mental wellbeing,” he said.
Jimoh dedicated the honor accorded him by the organization to all officers and men of the NPF, saying every achievement credited to police leadership was made possible by personnel serving on the frontlines.
He reiterated the commitment of the Inspector-General of Police, Mr Olatunji Disu, to people-centred policing, improved officer welfare and stronger community engagement.
The AIG assured the delegation that the command would continue to deepen collaboration with stakeholders and community-based organizations to sustain peace and security across the country.
Earlier, the president of PPUGI, Dr Prevail Ahmed, commended Jimoh
for his outstanding leadership and commitment to protecting lives and property.
She said police officers made enormous sacrifices for the safety of Nigerians and deserved greater appreciation and support.
The president also advocated increased attention to the mental health and well-being of police personnel, noting that officers who are mentally fit are better equipped to serve the public effectively.
Ahmed announced plans by the organization to establish Community Peace Clubs across Lagos to strengthen community policing and encourage residents to partner with security agencies.
She disclosed that PPUGI would hold a national walk on Aug. 15 to promote awareness of men’s mental health and peaceful coexistence.
Ahmed reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to working with the police to promote peace, unity and security across the country. (NAN).
