SituationREPORT

Akwa Ibom Police Warn Officers Against Extortion, Misuse Of Social Media

By SituationREPORT

The Akwa Ibom Police Command has warned its personnel against extortion, abuse of authority and the unauthorised circulation of sensitive official information on social media, threatening disciplinary action against officers whose conduct undermines public confidence in the Force.

The Commissioner of Police, Baba Mohammed Azare, gave the warning during an emergency strategic security meeting with senior officers of the Command in Uyo on Wednesday, October 21, 2026.

The meeting, attended by Assistant Commissioners of Police, Divisional Police Officers, tactical commanders, heads of departments and other senior officers, reviewed prevailing security concerns and strategies for strengthening crime prevention and control across the state.

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Azare charged officers in leadership and supervisory positions to improve intelligence gathering, crime detection, visibility policing and rapid response to distress calls, while strengthening collaboration among operational units.

He emphasised the need for effective supervision of personnel, particularly in identified security flashpoints and vulnerable locations, directing divisional commanders and heads of departments to maintain constant communication with their teams and ensure prompt reporting of security developments.

The police commissioner stressed that all personnel must discharge their duties with diligence, discipline, integrity and respect for the rule of law.

He warned against unlawful arrests, improper investigations, abuse of authority, extortion, negligence and dereliction of duty, insisting that searches, arrests and other police operations must comply with established laws and procedures.

The Command also reiterated the need for strict compliance with the social media policy of the Nigeria Police Force, in line with directives issued by the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu.

Officers were cautioned against publishing or circulating official information, internal communications, operational details, photographs, videos and other sensitive materials on social media without authorisation.

According to the Command, online conduct capable of compromising security operations, breaching confidentiality or bringing the Force into disrepute would attract appropriate disciplinary measures in accordance with applicable police regulations.

Azare urged all officers to implement the resolutions reached at the meeting, strengthen internal accountability and remain responsive to the security needs of residents.

The Command also called on members of the public to provide timely and credible information that could assist the police in identifying suspicious activities, preventing crime and maintaining peace.

It reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property and maintaining law and order across Akwa Ibom State, while urging residents to continue cooperating with security agencies.