The Nigeria Police Force has dismissed a viral video showing uniformed personnel allegedly scooping fuel from a tanker accident scene, stating that the individuals involved are not members of the force.
According to a statement by Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi on Monday, the uniforms seen in the video belong to personnel from a neighbouring francophone country, whose camouflage bears a striking resemblance to those of the Nigeria Police.
“The viral video circulating in the media that depicts uniformed personnel in camouflage scooping fuel from the wreckage of an accidented tanker was just released to discredit the Nigeria Police Force,” the statement read.
“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 neighbouring francophone country whose camouflage uniforms bear a resemblance to the Nigeria Police’s. The captured officers were speaking in French languages, not a Nigerian language or English,” it added.
The police expressed strong disapproval of the video, labelling it as an attempt to tarnish the force’s reputation.
The force stressed that such misinformation not only undermines its integrity but also poses broader risks to national unity and public confidence in security agencies.
“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 statement further stated.
Under the leadership of the Inspector General of Police, the Nigeria Police Force reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism, discipline, and ensuring the safety and security of Nigerians. Acts aimed at damaging its reputation, the statement noted, would not be tolerated.
“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,” it read.
The police called on the public to verify information before sharing it to avoid spreading falsehoods that could harm public trust and unity.
“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 statement added.
The force urged citizens to continue supporting their efforts to maintain law and order, promising to remain steadfast in serving the nation with dedication and transparency.
