President Bola Tinubu has moved to formally install Olatunji Disu as the 23rd Inspector-General of Police, bypassing the traditional Senate confirmation process and signalling a significant shift in how top police leadership transitions are being handled.
Disu, who has been acting in the role since late February following the resignation of former IGP Kayode Egbetokun, will take his oath of office at the Presidential Villa in Abuja during the Federal Executive Council meeting, a process confirmed by the Presidency and consistent with a Cabinet-level ceremony rather than a Senate screening.
The decision follows a unanimous ratification of his appointment by the Nigeria Police Council, chaired by Tinubu and comprising all 36 state governors, the Chairman of the Police Service Commission, and senior federal officials.
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The Council met at the State House in Abuja and, after a brief session, endorsed Disu as substantive IGP under the Police Act 2020, which requires the body to consider such appointments before any further action.
Disu, born in 1966 and a seasoned officer with a long career in the Nigeria Police Force, rose through the ranks before his acting appointment.
He previously served as a Commissioner of Police in several commands, including the Federal Capital Territory and Lagos State Rapid Response Squad, and led pivotal units such as the Intelligence Response Team.
His elevation to substantive IGP without the customary Senate hearing has reignited debate about the interpretation of statutory requirements for such appointments, especially amidst ongoing efforts to reform the nation’s security architecture.
Supporters argue the move will ensure continuity in leadership and maintain momentum in strategic reforms within the force. Critics, however, see the bypass as diminishing legislative oversight in key security appointments.
The transition follows Egbetokun’s resignation on 24 February, which he attributed to family considerations, leaving a leadership gap at a time when Nigeria continues to face complex security challenges.
During his decoration ceremony, Disu was tasked by Tinubu with improving the effectiveness of the police, enhancing responsiveness to public needs, and prioritising officer welfare.
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Amid his new responsibilities, Disu issued directives to commissioners of police nationwide to tighten security measures, particularly in light of external tensions, instructing heightened surveillance and collaboration with community leaders to prevent unrest.
Various professional bodies, including the Crime Reporters Association of Nigeria, have congratulated Disu and described the appointment as being grounded in merit and competence, reflecting broad institutional support for his leadership at a critical juncture for national security.
Source: The Guardian
