From Victor Osula, Abuja
President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday formally swore in Tunji Disu as Acting Inspector-General of Police (IGP), ushering in a new leadership era at the Nigeria Police Force.
The swearing-in ceremony, held at about 3:00 p.m. at the State House, Abuja, was attended by top government officials, senior security personnel, and other stakeholders in the nation’s policing architecture. .
Arriving at the Presidential Villa around 2:50 p.m., Disu had a brief meeting with President Tinubu before taking the oath of office, marking a smooth transition following the resignation of his predecessor, Kayode Egbetokun, who stepped down citing pressing family considerations. Egbetokun had held the IGP position since 2023.
In a statement on Tuesday, the Presidential Spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, confirmed that President Tinubu accepted Egbetokun’s resignation, paving the way for Disu’s elevation.
His appointment takes immediate effect, subject to Senate confirmation under the provisions of the Police Act 2020.
The Nigeria Police Council is also expected to consider his nomination for substantive appointment. If confirmed, he becomes Nigeria’s 23rd IGP
Before assuming the Force’s top position, Disu served as Assistant Inspector-General of Police at the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) Annex, Alagbon, Lagos.
His distinguished career includes serving as Commissioner of Police in Rivers State and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, and heading the Intelligence Response Team, where he led several high-profile operations.
He is also a member of the International Association of Chiefs of Police.
Disu’s appointment comes 48 days before his mandatory retirement at age 60, or upon completing 35 years of service, as stipulated by police regulations.
It also aligns with the 2024 amendment to the Police Act, which introduced a fixed four-year tenure for Inspectors-General, offering a potential period of stability and strategic continuity at the Force’s helm.
President Tinubu, in brief remarks during the ceremony, congratulated Disu and urged him to sustain reforms, enhance operational efficiency, and strengthen public trust in the Nigeria Police Force.
