Police Spokesperson Warns Against Spread Of False Security Narratives

Friday June 16, 2026
www.thenewsdesk.ng

By Idorenyin UMOREN
Private Investigator and Security Evaluator

The Nigeria Police Force, NPF, has cautioned media practitioners, social media users, and members of the public against the dissemination of unverified information capable of undermining national security efforts and the operations of security agencies.

The Force Public Relations Officer, FPRO, CSP Anietie Okokon Iniedu, made the call while emphasizing the importance of responsible communication and support for ongoing security operations across the country.

According to the FPRO, the complexity of security operations often requires discretion and operational silence rather than the release of information that may be inaccurate or misleading.

“I would prefer to maintain operational silence rather than disseminate false information,” he stated, stressing that security agencies are engaged in extensive tactical deployments and strategic operations that may not always be visible to the public.

CSP Iniedu lamented what he described as the growing influence of “keyboard warriors” who, without adequate knowledge of security realities, frequently comment on sensitive matters and spread narratives that could compromise ongoing operations.

He noted that many critics are often unaware of the sacrifices made daily by officers and men of the Nigeria Police Force in the discharge of their constitutional responsibilities, including combating crime, maintaining public order, and safeguarding lives and property.

FPRO further urged journalists, media organizations, and digital content creators to recognize the critical role they play in strengthening national security through responsible reporting and fact-based discourse.

He warned against allowing media platforms to become channels for the propagation of misinformation, subversive ideologies, or narratives capable of inciting public distrust and undermining the efforts of security agencies.

“The media and communication stakeholders have a critical role to play in national security. Do not allow your platform to be weaponized for the propagation of subversive ideology or dissident narratives,” he said.

The statement comes amid increasing concerns over the rapid spread of unverified information on social media platforms, particularly on security-related issues. Security experts have repeatedly stressed that while public scrutiny and accountability remain essential in a democratic society, the dissemination of false information can hamper intelligence gathering, jeopardize ongoing operations, and create unnecessary panic among citizens.