…Tinubu Tasks Disu on Banditry, Terrorism and National Security
By Yinka Giwa
Acting Inspector General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Disu, has declared that Nigerians are the ultimate authority over the Nigeria Police Force, warning officers and men that the era of impunity, corruption and abuse of office is over.
Disu made the declaration after being decorated at the State House, Abuja, where President Bola Tinubu formally handed him the reins of leadership following the retirement of former IGP Kayode Egbetokun. His appointment is subject to ratification by the Nigeria Police Council and confirmation by the Senate.
Addressing journalists after the ceremony, Disu said his first message to officers nationwide would be clear and uncompromising: the Nigerian people are their “boss,” and policing must be rooted in accountability, professionalism and respect for human rights.
“My top priority is to let them know that the citizen of this country is the boss,” he said. “No police anywhere in the world can succeed without the cooperation of members of the public.”
He pledged a regime of zero tolerance for corruption and misconduct within the ranks, stressing that indiscipline and abuse of power would no longer be tolerated under his watch.
“The area of impunity is over. I will ensure they follow human rights. I will follow a regime of zero tolerance to corruption,” Disu stated.
The Acting IGP said he would prioritise the welfare and motivation of officers to enhance performance, noting that a well-supported force is critical to effective policing. He also vowed to confront banditry and insurgency decisively, acknowledging the security challenges facing the country.
“The country is facing issues of banditry and insurgency. Officers have been doing their best. What is needed is to channel their morale and thoughts to make things better,” he said.
At a separate handover ceremony, Disu outlined a reform-driven agenda anchored on professionalism and modernisation, accountability and integrity, and stronger community partnership. He admitted that the force faces a trust deficit, resource constraints and cases of misconduct, describing them as realities that must be confronted directly.
He promised to embrace intelligence-led policing, forensic investigations and digital tools, emphasising that modern policing, not intimidation, would define operations going forward. He also warned that the police badge is a symbol of public trust and that any officer who undermines it would face disciplinary consequences.
President Tinubu, in his remarks at the decoration ceremony, charged Disu to restore peace and strengthen security nationwide, describing his appointment as coming at a critical time. The President urged him to tackle banditry, terrorism and other criminal activities, and to rebuild public confidence in the police in collaboration with other security agencies.
“I know your record. Lead firmly but fairly. Demand professionalism at every level and ensure that the safety of lives and property remains our highest priority,” Tinubu said, pledging his full support to the new police chief.