IGP Tunji Disu: A Man of Destiny Appointed Nigeria's Police Chief
Inspector General of Police Olatunji Rilwan Disu, born on April 13, 1966, has been described as a man of destiny following his recent appointment as Nigeria's top police officer. This promotion came in March 2026, just one month before his scheduled retirement on April 13, 2026, marking a remarkable culmination to his distinguished career.
The Concept of Destiny in Nigerian Culture
The Yoruba people of Southwest Nigeria refer to destiny as ayanmo, encapsulated in the adage: Ayanmo o gboogun, Ori lelejo, meaning destiny cannot be cured by any medicine, the head is the allocator. This cultural perspective aligns with Islamic teachings, where the Holy Quran addresses destiny in 17 verses, emphasizing divine sovereignty over human affairs.
Suratul Al Imran states: Say: Allah! Owner of Sovereignty! You bestow sovereignty on whomever you will and you withdraw from whomever you will. In your hand is all that is good. No doubt you have power to do everything (Surah Al – Imran, 3:26). This theological foundation underscores the belief that Disu's appointment was predestined.
A Career Marked by Excellence and Awards
IGP Disu rose through the ranks of the Nigeria Police Force, demonstrating exceptional discipline, professionalism, and a strong work ethic. His career included significant postings across multiple states and international missions:
- Led policing operations in Ondo, Ogun, Lagos, Rivers states, and the Federal Capital Territory
- Served in Darfur, Sudan, on behalf of the African Union
- Commander of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) in Lagos State
Under his leadership, the RRS received numerous accolades, including:
- Most Outstanding Urban Crime Control Police Command in West and Central Africa (2019)
- Best Anti-Crime Police Squad in West Africa (2016)
- Lagos State named best security and most safety-conscious state in Africa by Security Watch Africa (2016)
Disu's personal awards reflect his professional excellence:
- One of the longest-serving and best Divisional Police Officers in Ondo State
- Most Outstanding Police Operational Officer in West Africa (2016)
- Most Outstanding Police Operational Officer in Africa (2016)
- Crime Reporters Association of Nigeria (CRAN) Man of the Year (2018)
- Most Outstanding Anti-Crime Police Chief in West and Central Africa (2024)
- Best Commissioner of Police of the Year (2024)
Media Relations and Community Engagement
During his tenure as RRS Commander, Disu fostered strong relationships with media practitioners. In 2017, he engaged with the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Lagos State Council, then chaired by Qasim Akinreti, to promote mutual understanding between police and journalists.
This collaboration led to regular lectures at the RRS Parade Ground in Ikeja, Lagos, focusing on the roles of security agencies and media in national security. Disu's commitment to transparency and cooperation earned him an award from the NUJ during their 2017 Press Week, nominated by FRCN investigative reporter Mary Fatile.
Destiny Fulfilled Through Prayer and Preparation
Following one lecture series, Akinreti organized a prayer session for Disu in his office, attended by media professionals including Tunji Wusu, Abdul Malik, Ismail Adegbola, Owolabi, Sutton, and the late Adekunle. Prayers were offered from both Islamic and Christian perspectives, with Akinreti expressing the wish that Disu would one day become Inspector General of Police.
This prayer was repeated during subsequent visits to Disu at the Intelligence Response Team office in Guzape and Police Headquarters in Abuja. When President Bola Ahmed Tinubu confirmed Disu's appointment as IGP, Akinreti reminded him of these prayers and their fulfillment through destiny.
Disu's spiritual development, academic prowess, and excellent human relations have prepared him for this leadership role. His major pronouncements since assuming office reflect the discipline and professionalism that have characterized his career, now positioned to guide the Nigeria Police Force into a new era.
Qasim Akinreti, Ph.D., is head of Digital Media at Voice of Nigeria and former chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Lagos State Council.
