Technology must not come at the expense of citizens’ rights — IGP Disu

By Kingsley Omonobi

ABUJA — The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has directed police personnel to ensure that technology deployed for policing is used lawfully, ethically and responsibly, with adequate safeguards for citizens’ rights, privacy and personal data.

Disu gave the directive in Abuja while launching the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) Vigilant App and the NPF–MTN Closed User Group (CUG) Network at the NPF Conference Centre, Jabi.

According to a statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, the IGP described the two initiatives as practical measures supporting the Force’s digital transformation agenda.

He said the Vigilant App was designed to deepen engagement between the police and the public, while the CUG Network would strengthen internal communication and coordination across the Force.

Developed by the Force ICT Department in collaboration with stakeholders in the financial services ecosystem, the NPF Vigilant App is designed to facilitate prompt reporting of suspected financial fraud.

The citizen-facing platform allows users to submit reports, upload relevant evidence, track the progress of cases and receive feedback.

It also supports coordination with relevant institutions in accordance with existing laws and established procedures.

The Force said the technology would further enhance communication, emergency coordination and operational response across its commands and units.

Disu, however, stressed that technological advancement in policing must not come at the expense of citizens’ rights.

He described technology as an important enabler of professional policing but insisted that its deployment must be subject to appropriate safeguards and guided by respect for privacy, data protection and accountability.

The IGP said the Nigeria Police Force would continue to pursue more accessible, responsive, people-centred and effective policing services through the responsible application of technology and strategic partnerships.

He also reaffirmed the commitment of the Force to sustained collaboration with relevant institutions and private-sector partners to improve public safety and strengthen national security.

Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of Information and Communication Technology, Fayoade Adegoke Mustapha, said the launch reflected the Force’s determination to introduce practical, technology-driven solutions to improve service delivery, support police personnel and promote stronger public engagement.

DIG Fayoade called on Nigerians to download the NPF Vigilant App from the Google Play Store and Apple App Store, urging users to deploy the platform responsibly when reporting suspected financial fraud.

Representatives of the Central Bank of Nigeria, the Presidential Committee on Economic and Financial Inclusion, members of the Police Service Commission, the Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System, financial institutions, fintech companies, MTN Nigeria, Vigilant Technology Limited, TIMPH International Limited and other relevant partners attended the launch.

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