Dare Babalola
Tunji Disu, the Inspector-General of Police, on Wednesday, launched an eight-member committee to spearhead the implementation of state police and rollout of his policing vision, shortly after being confirmed as Nigeria’s 23rd indigenous IGP.
Disu held his first formal engagement with senior police officers since his confirmation, days after the Nigeria Police Council unanimously ratified his appointment, clearing the way for his swearing-in by President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa.
Disu appointed Professor Olu Ogunsakin to lead the eight-member state police committee.
Addressing the top hierarchy of the force, the IGP said leadership is “not about position but responsibility,” stressing that professionalism and accountability must guide conduct and operations across commands nationwide.
He stressed that true authority comes with restraint and respect for human rights is non-negotiable, adding that every Nigerian deserves dignity, fairness, and justice, irrespective of status or background.
Disu also revealed plans to boost internal oversight, directing the Public Complaint Unit and X-Squad to be given the autonomy to operate independently.
On decentralisation, he said it would enable different levels of government to take a more active role in security.
The inauguration of the state police implementation committee comes at a critical time for the Nigeria Police Force, following a leadership change at the top.
President Bola Tinubu appointed Disu as the Acting Inspector‑General of Police on February 24, 2026, after the resignation of his predecessor, Kayode Egbetokun.
Disu’s elevation followed a meeting between the outgoing IGP and the President at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, and his appointment was later unanimously endorsed by the Nigeria Police Council.
He is expected to be formally sworn in as substantive IGP during the Federal Executive Council meeting on Wednesday.
Disu’s appointment comes amid heightened concern over security challenges across the country, including rising cases of kidnappings, banditry, and community attacks.
The state police initiative championed by the current administration is part of broader security sector reforms aimed at decentralising policing powers to enhance responsiveness at local levels.
