BY GODWIN OBI
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Wednesday charged the newly decorated Acting Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, to leave the Nigeria Police Force stronger, more disciplined, and more trusted than he met it, as the nation confronts rising security threats.
At a ceremony held at the State House, Abuja, the President personally decorated Disu, describing his appointment as coming at a “defining moment for our nation’s security.” Tinubu expressed confidence that the new police chief possesses the leadership capacity to restore public faith in the Force.
“The commitment that I expect from you is simple: make the Nigeria Police better than you met it,” the President stated. “Nigeria is challenged right now with banditry, terrorism, and all forms of criminality. I am sure you can do it.”
Drawing from his time as Lagos State Governor, Tinubu recalled Disu’s service record, noting his dedication and operational competence.
“I know your record. I believe in the dedication you exhibited while serving in Lagos when I was Governor. Now you assume responsibility at a defining moment for our nation’s security,” he said.
Tinubu’s Charge: Discipline, Professionalism, Collaboration
The President outlined clear expectations for the new Acting IGP, emphasising discipline, professionalism, and synergy among security agencies.
“I expect you to strengthen discipline, enhance inter-agency collaboration, and restore public confidence in the Nigeria Police,” Tinubu declared. “Lead firmly but fairly. Demand professionalism at every level. Ensure that the safety of lives and property remains your highest priority.”
Acknowledging the enormity of the task ahead, Tinubu assured Disu of unwavering presidential support.
“It is a daunting challenge. But you have my full support as you advance the security pillars of the Renewed Hope agenda,” he added. “You are straightforward, disciplined, committed, and respected.”
The President also urged Disu to draw from the experience of his predecessor, Kayode Egbetokun, who was present at the event.
“You have been part of the thinking and innovation. Now you hold the baton of leadership. The belief is that you will excel and Nigeria will prevail,” Tinubu said.
Tribute to Egbetokun
Addressing the outgoing IGP, Tinubu commended Egbetokun for his service and leadership.
“Nigeria is grateful for your dedication, your leadership, and your contribution to maintaining law and order,” the President noted.
He added pointedly: “No leader succeeds without a good successor. Therefore, the success of Tunji Disu, when confirmed, is also part of your legacy.”
Disu’s Response: ‘Days of Impunity Are Over’
In his remarks to State House correspondents, Disu pledged to justify the confidence reposed in him, delivering one of the strongest anti-corruption declarations heard from a police chief in recent years.
“The era of impunity is over,” Disu vowed. “We will enforce a regime of zero tolerance for corruption. I will ensure officers are trained, guided by professionalism, and committed to respecting human rights.”
Visibly moved by the President’s commendation, Disu admitted the moment was deeply emotional.
“The President’s words about my career, my postings, and my achievements almost brought me to tears,” he said.
He underscored the centrality of citizens in policing:
“The citizen is the boss. No police organisation anywhere in the world can succeed without the cooperation of the people.”
Egbetokun Expresses Confidence
Egbetokun, speaking at the Force Headquarters during the handover ceremony, expressed confidence that his successor would surpass his achievements.
“I invested in likely successors, and I am pleased that one of them has been found most suitable for the job,” he said. “I have no doubt he will exceed expectations.”
Controversy Over Exit
The decoration followed Egbetokun’s resignation letter submitted on Tuesday, officially citing family reasons. However, multiple Presidency sources indicated that he was asked to step down after a meeting with the President earlier in the week.
Tenure Implications
Disu’s appointment comes just 48 days before his scheduled retirement on April 13, 2026. Yet, under the amended Police Act, an Inspector-General of Police is entitled to a fixed four-year tenure regardless of age, meaning Disu could remain in office until 2030 if confirmed by the Senate.
According to presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu will convene the Nigeria Police Council to consider Disu’s appointment as substantive IGP before forwarding his name to the Senate for confirmation.
A Career Defined by Operations
Born on April 13, 1966, Disu joined the Nigeria Police Force in May 1992. Over three decades, he built a reputation as a frontline operational officer.
He gained national prominence as Commander of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) in Lagos, where his leadership earned the unit the Best Anti-Crime Squad award in West Africa in 2016.
In August 2021, he was appointed head of the Intelligence Response Team (IRT), succeeding the suspended Abba Kyari. Prior to his elevation, he served as Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) Annex, Alagbon, Lagos.
Assumes Duty at Force Headquarters
Upon returning from the Presidential Villa, Disu formally assumed duty at the Force Headquarters, Abuja, taking his first salute as Acting IGP from the Quarter Guard.
At the handover ceremony, he acknowledged persistent institutional challenges, including:
- A trust deficit with communities
- Outdated policing systems
- Resource constraints
- Instances of misconduct
“These are truths we must confront with resolve,” he said.
Three-Point Reform Agenda
Disu unveiled three core priorities:
1. Professionalism and Modernisation
The Force will adopt intelligence-led policing, forensic investigation, digital tools, and evidence-based practices, alongside improved training and equipment.
2. Accountability and Integrity
Disu delivered a blunt warning:
“The days of impunity are over. The badge is a symbol of public trust. Anyone who abuses it will face the full weight of disciplinary processes — at every rank, without exception.”
He pledged to strengthen oversight mechanisms and entrench transparency.
3. Community Partnership
“Effective policing cannot happen without the people,” he said, promising to deepen community policing nationwide.
Call to Officers and Citizens
Disu urged officers to uphold integrity, compassion, and courage, assuring them of better welfare and dignified working conditions.
He also appealed to Nigerians:
“Partner with the police. Report crimes. Engage with officers. Hold us accountable.”
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