The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has firmly denied claims linking its officers to a viral video showing uniformed personnel scooping fuel from a crashed tanker. The footage, widely circulated online, has sparked controversy and misinformation, prompting the NPF to issue an official clarification.
In a statement released on Monday, the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, confirmed that the individuals in the video are not members of the Nigeria Police Force. Instead, they are uniformed personnel from a neighboring francophone country whose attire bears a striking resemblance to that of Nigerian police officers.
“The viral video circulating in the media that depicts uniformed personnel in camouflage scooping fuel from the wreckage of an accident tanker was just released to discredit the Nigeria Police Force. It is essential to clarify that the individuals in the video are not officers of the Nigeria Police Force. They are uniformed personnel from a neighboring francophone country whose camouflage uniforms bear a resemblance to the Nigeria Police’s. The captured officers were speaking in French, not a Nigerian language or English,” the statement read.
The NPF expressed strong disapproval of what it termed “disinformation and unverified news” that damages the image of the force. Adejobi stressed that under the leadership of the Inspector-General of Police, the NPF remains committed to professionalism, discipline, and the safety of Nigerians.
“We strongly condemn the spread of such disinformation and unverified news and contents aimed at tarnishing or discrediting the image of the Nigeria Police Force. Such actions not only undermine the integrity of the force but also have far-reaching negative consequences for the nation and its people.
“The Nigeria Police Force, under the leadership of the IGP, remains committed to upholding discipline, professionalism, and dedication to the safety and security of all Nigerians. Acts that compromise the reputation of the force are unequivocally unacceptable and will not be tolerated.,” Adejobi said.
The police urged the public to be cautious and verify information before sharing it to prevent harm to national unity and the credibility of security institutions.
“We urge all Nigerians to exercise caution and verify information before sharing it, to foster national unity and uphold the credibility of institutions working tirelessly for public safety,” the Force said.
