By George Ozalla
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has removed Kayode Egbetokun from his role as Inspector‑General of Police and appointed Olaitan Rilwan Disu, known as Tunji Disu, as the new acting head of the force. The decision was reached at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, where Egbetokun was asked to resign. A formal handover is expected soon at Force Headquarters in Abuja.
Disu takes over at a pivotal moment for the Nigeria Police Force. A career officer with over three decades of service, he has held key leadership positions across the country. He served as Commissioner of Police in the Federal Capital Territory and Rivers State, and led the Force Criminal Investigation Department annex in Alagbon, Lagos. His work has covered criminal investigations, operational command, and intelligence, earning him wide respect within policing circles.
As Commissioner of Police in the Federal Capital Territory, Disu oversaw security in the nation’s capital, handling major political events, protests, and high-profile operations. In Rivers State, he faced the challenge of tackling entrenched criminal networks and maintaining public safety in one of the country’s most densely populated regions. At the CID annex in Lagos, he focused on complex investigations, organised crime, and coordination with other security agencies.
Egbetokun became the 22nd Inspector‑General in June 2023, but his tenure ended less than three years later. His appointment had been extended by a law that allowed him to serve a full four-year term regardless of retirement age, a move that generated debate at the time.
Analysts say the change comes as the federal government adjusts its security leadership ahead of the 2027 general elections. Disu’s appointment is seen as an opportunity to strengthen policing leadership, improve operations, and rebuild public confidence in the force.
Under the Constitution, Disu’s appointment as acting Inspector‑General must be confirmed by the Senate before he can take up the substantive role. His confirmation will involve a review of his career record, leadership experience, and plans for the force.
Disu assumes leadership at a time when citizens and government alike are focused on security, policing reforms, and effective law enforcement. His career shows extensive experience in operations, investigations, and administration, and attention will now turn to how he directs the force in meeting the country’s security challenges.
