New IGP Tunji Disu Vows End to Impunity in Nigeria Police Force, Declares Zero Tolerance for Corruption and Rights Abuses
President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday decorated newly appointed Acting Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Olatunji (Tunji) Disu with his new rank at the State House, Abuja, in a ceremony marking a major leadership change in the Nigeria Police Force.
Disu, who was elevated from Assistant Inspector-General (AIG), vowed an end to impunity within the force, declaring a strict regime of **zero tolerance** for corruption and human rights abuses. Speaking to State House correspondents immediately after the decoration, the new police chief emphasized that Nigerian citizens—not politicians—are the true "bosses" of the police.
"The era of impunity is over," Disu stated firmly. "I will train and encourage officers to uphold human rights, enforce zero tolerance to corruption, and ensure they understand that we cannot succeed without public cooperation."
He announced plans to immediately address officers nationwide through reorientation lectures focused on citizen-centered policing. "One of my first lectures will remind them that the citizen is the boss," he said. "No police force anywhere in the world succeeds without the support of the public."
Disu's appointment follows the resignation of his predecessor, Kayode Egbetokun, submitted on Tuesday, February 24, 2026. The Presidency cited family issues requiring Egbetokun's undivided attention, though multiple sources indicated he was asked to step aside during a Monday evening meeting with President Tinubu at the Presidential Villa.
Egbetokun, who attended the decoration ceremony, expressed strong confidence in Disu, describing him as a colleague with a "unique history" tied to President Tinubu's mentorship from his days as Lagos State Governor. "I invested in likely successors, and I'm happy one has been found most suitable," Egbetokun said. He urged Disu to build on reforms such as intelligence-led operations, inter-agency collaboration, and dismantling criminal networks, noting Disu's past roles—including as Principal Staff Officer and compliance enforcer for withdrawing police from VIP protection.
President Tinubu personally pinned the insignia on Disu's uniform and commended Egbetokun's service. The event, held at 4:00 pm, was attended by Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila and other senior officials.
Disu described the appointment as an emotional surprise, particularly after President Tinubu recounted details of his career achievements during the ceremony. "The President mentioning my activities, areas I've worked, and successes almost brought me to tears," he said, interpreting it as a challenge to deliver peace and calm nationwide.
On welfare, Disu pledged to prioritize officer motivation, stating, "Motivated people put in their best." He expressed confidence in the force's hardworking officers and vowed to channel their morale toward improved performance amid challenges like banditry and insurgency.
Born April 13, 1966, in Lagos, Disu joined the Nigeria Police Force on May 18, 1992. He gained prominence as Commander of the Lagos Rapid Response Squad (RRS), rebranding officers as "The Good Guys" and earning the unit the Best Anti-Crime Squad award in West Africa in 2016. He later headed the Intelligence Response Team (replacing Abba Kyari in 2021), served as Commissioner of Police in Rivers State and the FCT, and most recently led the Force Criminal Investigation Department Annex in Lagos.
His appointment comes just 48 days before his scheduled retirement on April 13, 2026, upon turning 60. However, amendments to the Police Act allow the IGP a fixed four-year single term regardless of age, potentially extending his tenure to 2030, pending formal confirmation.
Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga stated that President Tinubu will soon convene the Nigeria Police Council to consider Disu's substantive appointment, after which his name will be sent to the Senate for confirmation.
The transition is expected to trigger retirements or resignations of at least nine Deputy Inspectors-General (DIGs) and potentially 15–20 senior officers senior to Disu, in line with tradition when a junior officer assumes the top post.
Disu is set to formally assume office at Force Headquarters, Louis Edet House, Abuja, later Wednesday, with a handover ceremony and senior officers' parade.
Egbetokun served as IGP from June 19, 2023 (confirmed October 31, 2023), for about two years and eight months, a period marked by controversies including protest handling, election-related allegations, and persistent security concerns.
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