The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has called on Nigerians to refrain from using social media to report police misconduct, advising instead that complaints should be directed to the Police Complaints Response Unit (PCRU).
Speaking at the PPROs/Police Communication Experts’ Conference in Asaba, Delta State, on Monday, the IGP warned that social media platforms often contribute to misinformation and can harm the reputation of the police force.
“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 stressed that the PCRU offers a more structured and accountable process for handling complaints.
While acknowledging the powerful role social media plays in shaping public opinion, Egbetokun cautioned that unverified information shared online can create false perceptions and undermine trust in the police.
The IGP emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability within the police force, highlighting that the media is a key partner in promoting these values. “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.
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Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State, who opened the conference, also discussed the challenges of policing in states like Delta and Lagos. He pointed out the need to address misinformation and improve communication between the police and the public.
“I want to thank the IGP for his good work,” Oborevwori said. “As an officer who served in Lagos as CP, he is capable of policing Nigeria. Delta and Lagos States are very tough states to police; therefore, any officer who served in Delta or Lagos as CP will police Nigeria well,” he added.
Both the IGP and the governor underscored the importance of public engagement and the role of Police Public Relations Officers (PPROs) in addressing misconceptions and showcasing the positive work being done by the police.
