Eight Senior Police Officers May Exit Following New IGP Tunji Disu's Appointment
8 Senior Police Officers May Exit After New IGP Appointment

Eight Senior Police Officers May Exit Following New IGP Tunji Disu's Appointment

President Bola Tinubu has appointed Mr. Tunji Disu as the Acting Inspector-General of Police, succeeding Mr. Kayode Egbetokun, who resigned from the position. This leadership change, announced on February 24, 2026, marks a significant shift in the Nigeria Police Force's hierarchy and could trigger the departure of several senior officers.

Reports indicate that Disu's appointment, though in an acting capacity, may lead to the exit of eight Deputy Inspector-Generals of Police. This aligns with a longstanding tradition where senior officers often vacate their roles when a subordinate is elevated to the IGP position, reshaping the force's command structure.

List of Senior Officers Potentially Affected

Here is a detailed overview of the eight Deputy Inspector-Generals who may leave the Nigeria Police Force as a result of this development:

  • Adebola Hamzat: Currently serves as the Deputy Inspector-General in charge of the Department of Logistics and Supply. He oversees procurement, works, housing, and the Force Quarter-Master. Previously, he was the Assistant Inspector-General for Zone 16 in Yenagoa and Commissioner of Police for Oyo State.
  • Yahaya Abubakar: Heads the Department of Finance and Administration, managing financial operations, budgeting, and human resources. He was promoted to this role in 2024 after serving in various senior positions.
  • Bzigu Kwazhi: Leads the Department of Operations, coordinating crime prevention strategies and tactical operations across Nigeria. He has been involved in high-level security assessments, including peace restoration efforts in Plateau and Adamawa States.
  • Adebowale Williams: Serves as the head of the Department of Information and Communication Technology, advancing the force's technological infrastructure and digital tools for modern policing.
  • Idris Abubakar: Appointed as a cadet ASP in 1992, he holds advanced degrees in psychology and hails from Kano State, with a background in education.
  • Frank Mba: A three-time National Spokesman for the Nigeria Police Force, he has risen through the ranks and received a UN Medal for service in Liberia. He was decorated as an Assistant Inspector-General in 2023.
  • Basil Idegwu: Heads the Department of Research and Planning, focusing on strategic planning and policy formulation. He holds a Ph.D. in Peace and Security Studies and promotes community policing initiatives.
  • Mohammed Gumel: Assumed duty as the Deputy Inspector-General in charge of the Force Intelligence Department in late 2025. Known for community policing advocacy, he was recognized as the best Community Policing Advocate of the Year in 2024.

Background on the New IGP

Olatunji Disu, a highly experienced senior police officer, has been positioned as Nigeria's 23rd Inspector-General of Police. His appointment follows Egbetokun's resignation and is expected to bring new dynamics to the force's leadership. Observers note that this change could enhance operational efficiency and address ongoing security challenges.

The potential exit of these senior officers underscores the broader implications of leadership transitions within the Nigeria Police Force. As the force adapts to this reshuffle, stakeholders are monitoring how it will impact policing strategies and public safety across the country.