Acting IGP Tunji Disu Vows to End Police Impunity After Tinubu Appointment
Nigeria's newly appointed acting Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has made a powerful declaration, stating that the era of impunity within the Nigeria Police Force is officially over. This announcement came during his first public address following his appointment by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Tuesday, February 24, 2026.
Emotional Response to Presidential Support
Speaking to State House correspondents in Abuja on Wednesday afternoon, February 25, Disu revealed that President Tinubu's supportive remarks during their meeting at the presidential villa brought him to the brink of tears. The acting IGP expressed deep emotion as the president detailed his career achievements and past successes within the police force.
"Hearing the president mentioning a lot of activities about me, mentioning areas I have worked, mentioning successes I have recorded as a policeman, brought emotion to me, almost brought me to tears," Disu confessed. He interpreted this detailed knowledge as evidence of President Tinubu's careful attention to officers serving across Nigeria and as a direct challenge to continue his exemplary work.
Zero-Tolerance Approach to Corruption
The acting police chief outlined a comprehensive reform agenda centered on eliminating corruption and improving police-community relations. Disu emphasized his commitment to implementing a strict zero-tolerance policy toward corruption within the force while stressing the critical importance of public cooperation for successful policing.
"I will ensure that I train them and encourage them to ensure they follow human rights. I will ensure that they know that I will try to follow a regime of zero tolerance for corruption, and most importantly, I'm going to drum it into them that we can never succeed without the cooperation of members of the public," Disu stated regarding his message to police officers nationwide.
Career Background and Leadership Experience
Born on April 13, 1966, in Lagos Island, the 59-year-old police veteran brings extensive experience to his new role. Disu has held several key positions throughout his distinguished career, including commander of the Rapid Response Squad in Lagos, head of the Intelligence Response Team, commissioner of police in Rivers State, and commissioner of police in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.
Most recently, he served as assistant inspector-general of police in charge of the Force Criminal Investigation Department annex in Alagbon, Lagos. Disu succeeds Kayode Egbetokun as Nigeria's top police officer and has earned recognition for leading several high-profile operations and demonstrating proactive crime-fighting strategies throughout his career.
Political and Professional Reactions
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu congratulated Disu on his appointment, describing it as an honor to Lagos State. In a statement issued by his special adviser on media and publicity, Gboyega Akosile, Governor Sanwo-Olu praised Disu's "high level professionalism, competence and contribution to the Nigerian Police for over three decades."
The governor characterized Disu's elevation to acting inspector-general of police as well-deserved, reflecting widespread confidence in his ability to lead meaningful reforms within the police force during this critical transition period.
