The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has called for stronger collaboration between the police and the media, stressing that both institutions have critical roles to play in strengthening national security and promoting responsible public communication.
IGP Disu made the call while delivering his keynote address at the Vanguard Alumni book launch and reunion held at the Civic Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos, on Wednesday.
The book, titled The Vanguard Chronology: 40 Years of Nigeria’s Leading Tabloid, documents the history and contributions of Vanguard Newspapers to Nigeria’s media landscape.
The IGP said that the media remained a critical institution in shaping public understanding, particularly at a time when information could spread rapidly through traditional and social media platforms.
He warned that unverified reports, rumours and false allegations could have serious security implications, including the potential to inflame tensions and trigger violence.
According to him, the speed at which information travels in the digital age makes accuracy and verification increasingly important, as false information can reach large audiences within minutes.
He urged the police to communicate promptly and transparently whenever credible information is available, noting that timely official communication could help prevent speculation and misinformation from taking root.
Disu also appealed to media organisations to uphold professional standards by verifying information before publication, particularly when reporting issues relating to security, crime, and other sensitive matters.
“The police and the media must work together,” he said, explaining that effective cooperation between both institutions was necessary to safeguard public interest and national security.
The IGP further noted that behind every security incident were individuals, families and communities whose lives and livelihoods could be affected, urging stakeholders to look beyond reporting violence and pay attention to recovery, resilience, and rebuilding.
He commended Vanguard Newspapers for its longstanding contribution to journalism and the documentation of Nigeria’s national history, describing the newspaper’s four-decade journey as significant to the country’s media development.
Disu emphasised that the anniversary and reunion provided an opportunity not only to celebrate Vanguard’s legacy but also to reflect on the responsibility of the media in strengthening democratic values, promoting informed public discourse, and contributing to national development.
He congratulated the Vanguard Alumni and the newspaper’s founder, Sam Amuka-Pemu, popularly known as Uncle Sam, on the publication and anniversary celebration.
