In a stirring declaration that signalled a shift in tone at the apex of the nation’s law enforcement hierarchy, the Acting Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, today affirmed that Nigerians remain the ultimate authority over the police, pledging a new era anchored on accountability and discipline.
Moments after his decoration by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Disu described his elevation as both humbling and sobering, promising to place peace, stability and national cohesion at the forefront of his leadership.
He said the President’s public recognition of his past assignments was not merely commendation, but a compelling call to greater national service at a time security challenges continue to test the country’s resolve.
Declaring that “Nigerians are the real bosses,” the Acting IGP stressed that effective policing cannot thrive without public trust and active citizen cooperation, insisting that the Force must earn that confidence through conduct and results.
In a firm warning to erring officers, Disu announced zero tolerance for impunity and unprofessional behaviour, signalling that discipline would no longer be negotiable under his watch.
He assured that strict adherence to human rights standards would define operational engagements, adding that corruption within the Force would be confronted decisively and without compromise.
The police chief also turned attention inward, promising renewed focus on officers’ welfare, arguing that a motivated and well-supported workforce remains critical to optimal performance and ethical conduct.
While acknowledging persistent threats such as banditry and insurgency, Disu commended officers for their resilience, pledging enhanced coordination, improved intelligence gathering and strengthened operational efficiency nationwide.
In his valedictory remarks, the outgoing Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for the opportunity to serve, reflecting on a professional journey shaped by long-standing relationships within the system.
Egbetokun disclosed that he had intentionally invested in grooming competent officers, voicing satisfaction that one of them now leads the Force, and expressing confidence that Disu would consolidate ongoing reforms while deepening discipline, intelligence response and professionalism across the Nigeria Police Force.