The Nigeria Police Force has announced the passing of two senior officers, Assistant Inspector-General of Police Adeleke Taiwo Olatunde (Rtd) and Commissioner of Police Hassan Saleh Gwani, within a span of nine days. Both men served the force for nearly three decades each, according to a statement released on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, via the force's official X account @PoliceNG.
The Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, described the deceased as distinguished officers whose careers were defined by dedication and commitment to public safety. The announcement has drawn an outpouring of condolences from colleagues and the public.
AIG Olatunde’s Distinguished Career
AIG Olatunde died at his residence in Lagos on July 23, 2026, just months after retiring from active service on November 3, 2025. He joined the Nigeria Police Force on May 18, 1992, as a Cadet Assistant Superintendent of Police, embarking on a career spanning more than 33 years.
Throughout his service, Olatunde held key command and operational roles across several state commands, including Abia, Lagos, Osun, and Benue, as well as postings at Force Headquarters. His notable assignments included Divisional Police Officer at Ikire, Assistant Commissioner and Deputy Commissioner for Operations at the Western Port Authority in Lagos, Commander of the SWAT Unit at the Force Criminal Investigation Department Headquarters, and AIG Operations—the role from which he retired. He is survived by his wife and children.
CP Gwani’s Service and Passing
CP Hassan Saleh Gwani died on Sunday, July 19, 2026, while receiving medical treatment in Cairo, Egypt. The force described him as a professional officer who gave close to three decades of service with unwavering commitment to public welfare. His death occurred nine days before Olatunde’s, compounding the loss for the force.
Condolences and Tributes
Following the announcement, tributes have flooded social media. One user, @Adamu_h_Adamu, wrote: "My deepest condolences to the families, friends, and colleagues of AIG Adeleke Taiwo Olatunde (Rtd) and CP Hassan Saleh Gwani. May their years of dedicated service be remembered, and may they rest in perfect peace."
The Nigeria Police Force has urged the public to keep the families of the deceased in their prayers during this difficult time.
Previous Loss of AIG Uzuegbu
In a related development, the force earlier mourned the death of AIG Kanayo V. Uzuegbu, who also served for over three decades with honour and professionalism. Uzuegbu held an M.Sc. in Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution and left a legacy of dedicated service.
Rising Security Concerns in Kano
Separately, a police officer identified as Sani S.O. of the Hotoro Division in Kano was killed during a violent clash between rival thugs, just weeks before his scheduled retirement. The officer was allegedly shot with a dane gun while attempting to disperse the fighting groups. His death has heightened concerns over thuggery-related violence in Kano, particularly ahead of the 2027 general elections.
