By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Olatunji Disu on Wednesday assumed office as Acting Inspector-General of Police in Abuja, succeeding Olukayode Egbetokun, after his appointment by President Bola Tinubu, pledging sweeping reforms to restore professionalism, accountability, and public trust in the Nigeria Police Force.
Disu described his appointment as a heavy responsibility. He said the moment calls for action, not celebration.
He thanked President Tinubu for the confidence reposed in him.
Disu Pledges Professionalism and Modernisation
Disu assured officers and citizens that his leadership would focus on measurable reforms.
He said the Nigeria Police Force must adopt intelligence-led policing. He also promised to expand forensic investigations and deploy digital tools.
According to him, modern policing methods will replace intimidation and abuse of authority.
“The road ahead is not smooth,” he said. “However, my commitment to transforming this Service will not waver.”
Commitment to Accountability and Integrity
Disu warned that impunity will no longer be tolerated within the force.
He stressed that the police badge represents public trust. Therefore, any officer who undermines that trust will face disciplinary action.
He pledged to strengthen oversight mechanisms. He also promised greater transparency in internal processes.
“These are uncomfortable truths,” he noted, referring to misconduct and systemic gaps. “Yet, we must confront them with resolve.”
Community Policing as a Core Philosophy
Disu described community policing as a guiding philosophy, not a temporary programme.
He promised deeper engagement with citizens through town halls, markets, schools, and neighbourhood forums.
Furthermore, he urged Nigerians to report crimes and hold officers accountable.
“We are not your adversaries,” he said. “We are your neighbours in uniform.”
He emphasised that public safety remains the only measure of police success.
Welfare and Support for Officers
Disu assured officers that he will prioritise their welfare and working conditions.
In return, he demanded integrity, compassion, and courage in service.
He acknowledged existing challenges within the force. These include outdated systems, resource shortages, and a trust deficit with communities.
Nevertheless, he expressed confidence that reforms will reposition the police as a modern institution.
Building on Past Leadership
Disu took over from Olukayode Egbetokun during a formal handover ceremony.
He acknowledged the contributions of past Inspectors-General. He pledged to build on foundations already laid.
His tenure, he said, will stand on three pillars: professionalism and modernisation, accountability and integrity, and community partnership and public trust.
With this agenda, Disu signalled a decisive shift in the direction of the Nigeria Police Force.
