Nigeria’s newly appointed Acting Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has outlined accountability, human rights compliance and anti-corruption reforms as the core pillars of his leadership of the Nigeria Police Force.
Disu, who was recently appointed by Bola Ahmed Tinubu, described his elevation to the top police position as both unexpected and deeply humbling.
Speaking on Wednesday, he said the President’s public recognition of his past service record was emotional and motivating.
“The appointment means a lot to me… it came at a time I was not expecting it,” Disu said, expressing appreciation to the President for what he described as a show of confidence in his capacity to lead.
He noted that the President’s remarks signalled that officers’ performances are under close review, adding that the acknowledgement represents a challenge to deliver measurable results in policing and internal reform.
Disu vows to change officers’ orientation
Outlining his immediate priorities, the Acting IGP said he would begin with a direct engagement with officers aimed at reorientation and professional recalibration.
“My top priority is one of the first lectures I’m going to have with my men,” he stated. “I’m going to talk to them and let them know that the citizens of the country are the boss.”
He emphasised that effective policing is rooted in public trust and cooperation, noting that no law enforcement institution can function optimally without legitimacy in the eyes of the people it serves.
Zero tolerance for corruption
Disu pledged to confront internal misconduct within the force and enforce human rights standards. He also declared an end to impunity.
“I will let them know that the era of impunity is over,” he said. “I will ensure that I train and encourage them to follow human rights standards. I will try to follow a regime of zero tolerance for corruption.”
He also identified officer welfare as a strategic priority, arguing that improved morale and working conditions would translate into improved operational effectiveness.
Addressing insecurity
On the broader security landscape — including banditry and insurgency — Disu acknowledged the sacrifices of officers currently deployed across volatile regions. He said his role would be to harness existing efforts and boost morale to enhance outcomes.
“All I need to do is to channel their morale and their thoughts to make things better,” he said.
Disu’s appointment follows the removal of former Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun.
His tenure comes at a time when the police face sustained public scrutiny over allegations of corruption, human rights abuses, and systemic accountability gaps.
