The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, on Tuesday, May 4, 2026, convened an emergency meeting with senior officers of the Nigeria Police Force at the Force Headquarters in Abuja. The gathering brought together members of the Force Management Team, Assistant Inspectors-General, Commissioners of Police, and members of the press to address pressing national security concerns and outline operational priorities.
Focus on Accountability and Security Challenges
Addressing the gathering, the IGP stressed the need for improved transparency, discipline, and leadership responsibility across all levels of the Force. He noted that current security realities require a more proactive and intelligence-led approach. Disu emphasized that the changing security environment demands a more responsive, accountable, and intelligence-driven policing approach.
IGP Condemns Delta Incident
The police chief also addressed a recent incident in Delta State involving the extra-judicial killing of a suspect, describing it as a violation of the Force’s principles. He confirmed that the officers involved had been dismissed and would face prosecution, reiterating that misconduct would not be tolerated. Disu maintained that the Force operates a strict zero-tolerance policy, insisting that no personnel is above the law.
Police: April Operations Yield Major Arrests
Providing an operational update, Disu disclosed that police activities in April 2026 led to multiple arrests and recoveries nationwide. According to him, intelligence-led operations resulted in the arrest of 28 suspected terrorists, 51 murder suspects, 62 armed robbery suspects, 85 kidnapping suspects, and 54 suspected cultists. He added that 189 kidnapped victims were rescued, while 140 firearms, 1,074 rounds of ammunition, and 37 stolen vehicles were recovered.
New Unit to Tackle Violent Crimes
As part of ongoing reforms, the IGP announced the creation of the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU), a specialized formation aimed at improving the Force’s response to serious criminal activities. He said the unit would rely on intelligence-based deployment, backed by specialized training, strict adherence to human rights standards, and clear accountability structures under the supervision of Commissioners of Police.
Community Policing Directive Issued
The IGP further directed Commissioners of Police across the country to strengthen community engagement through regular town hall meetings with stakeholders, including traditional and religious leaders. He also instructed that senior officers make their contact details available to community representatives to enhance communication and public trust.
Commitment to Reform Reiterated
Disu reaffirmed the Force’s commitment to institutional reforms centered on professionalism, discipline, respect for human rights, and public accountability. He noted that mechanisms such as the Police Complaints Response Unit remain in place to ensure transparency and responsiveness in policing operations.
