Ebola: IGP Orders Police Personnel to Enforce Safety Measures

Ebola: IGP Orders Police Personnel to Enforce Safety Measures

The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has called on Nigerians to remain calm, vigilant and adhere strictly to public health guidelines following the Federal Government’s reported confirmation of an Ebola case in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The IGP also urged the public to cooperate with health authorities, maintain proper hygiene and observe recommended preventive measures to minimise the risk of transmission.

In a statement issued on Monday, October 26, 2026, by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, the police chief emphasised the importance of public awareness and responsible conduct in preventing the spread of the disease.

He advised Nigerians to wash their hands regularly with soap and water, avoid direct contact with the blood and other body fluids of suspected cases, and stay away from potentially contaminated objects.

The IGP also cautioned against touching or washing the bodies of persons suspected to have died from Ebola, stressing the need to follow appropriate public health protocols.

He advised anyone who might have been exposed to the virus to contact health authorities promptly for professional guidance.

Individuals who develop symptoms following possible exposure were urged to avoid physical contact with others and call the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) on its toll-free helpline, 6232, for immediate guidance.

Disu further directed police personnel to observe appropriate infection prevention and control measures while performing their duties and ensure that suspected cases are referred to qualified health professionals.

He stressed that suspected patients, their contacts and healthcare workers must be treated with dignity and without discrimination.

The Nigeria Police Force also urged members of the public to cooperate with contact-tracing teams, provide accurate information when required and refrain from circulating unverified reports capable of triggering unnecessary fear and panic.

Nigerians were encouraged to rely on official information from the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, the NCDC and other authorised public health agencies.

The Force reaffirmed its commitment to supporting relevant health authorities in protecting lives, maintaining public order and ensuring public safety throughout the period.

The IGP called for collective responsibility, urging Nigerians to remain informed, vigilant and compassionate towards those affected by the outbreak.

The statement was signed by CSP Ani Iniedu, Force Public Relations Officer, Nigeria Police Force, Force Headquarters, Abuja, on October 26, 2026.