Nigeria has a new police chief, and the timing has raised eyebrows.
On February 24, 2026, President Bola Tinubu appointed Tunji Disu as Acting Inspector-General of Police (IGP). He replaced Kayode Egbetokun, who resigned the same day, officially citing pressing family concerns. There was, however, more context.
Egbetokun’s tenure had attracted criticism. Kidnappings and violent crimes remained high. There was also controversy over the amendment to the Police Act that allowed an IGP to serve a fixed four-year term, even after reaching retirement age. His resignation ended that debate abruptly.
Disu steps in with more than 30 years of service. He joined the Nigeria Police Force in 1992. Over time, he built a reputation in operational and intelligence roles.
Many Nigerians first heard his name when he led the Intelligence Response Team in 2021. He replaced Abba Kyari after Kyari’s suspension. His assignment then was clear: stabilise a unit damaged by scandal and restore credibility.
Before that, he commanded the Lagos Rapid Response Squad from 2015 to 2021. Under his leadership, the unit was rebranded as “The Good Guys.” Officers were encouraged to assist accident victims and stranded motorists, not just make arrests, so they can build public trust.
Disu has also served as Commissioner of Police in Rivers State and the Federal Capital Territory. Until this latest appointment, he was an Assistant Inspector-General overseeing the Force Criminal Investigation Department Annex in Lagos.
His academic record is notable. He holds degrees in English Education, Public Administration, and Criminology, Security, and Legal Psychology. He is also a member of international policing bodies, including the International Association of Chiefs of Police.
One detail stands out: before this appointment, he was just 48 days away from mandatory retirement at 60. Under the amended law, an appointed IGP serves a four-year term regardless of age.
Supporters describe Disu as a blend of discipline and reform. Critics will likely judge him by one metric alone: whether security improves. For now, he takes office at a moment when public patience is thin, and expectations are high.
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