IGP Disu: Says No Officer Above The Law, No Matter Rank Or Position

Lagos – The Inspector General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has issued a stern warning to all officers under his command, declaring that no one in the Nigeria Police Force is above the law, irrespective of their rank, seniority, or position. In a video address circulating widely, Disu emphasized his zero-tolerance policy for misconduct, abuse of authority, or any form of violation that undermines the integrity of the force. “No officer is above the law. I will not tolerate any misconduct or abuse of authority,” he stated firmly, adding that under his leadership, accountability will be enforced without favoritism.

This strong stance comes just days after Disu’s confirmation as the 23rd Inspector-General of Police by the Nigeria Police Council. The council, chaired by President Bola Tinubu and comprising the 36 state governors, the FCT Minister, and other key stakeholders, unanimously ratified his appointment on March 2, 2026, following the resignation of the former IGP, Kayode Egbetokun. Disu, who was initially appointed in an acting capacity last week, was promoted from Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG) to IGP and sworn in during the Federal Executive Council meeting on March 4, 2026.

Born on April 13, 1966, in Lagos State, Disu joined the Nigeria Police Force on May 18, 1992, as a Cadet Assistant Superintendent of Police. Over his distinguished career spanning more than three decades, he has held several critical positions, including Commander of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) in Lagos from 2015 to 2021, where he was lauded for effective crime control. He also served as Assistant Commissioner in the Criminal Investigation Department and Officer-in-Charge of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit in Rivers State from 2014 to 2015, Commissioner of Police in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), and most recently, AIG in charge of the Special Protection Unit and the Force CID Annex in Lagos. Disu’s academic credentials include degrees in public administration, forensic investigation, criminology, security, legal psychology, and entrepreneurship, underscoring his commitment to modern, knowledge-driven policing.

President Tinubu’s choice of Disu has been linked to his track record, including serving as the President’s former Aide-De-Camp. During the confirmation meeting at the State House in Abuja, which lasted about 40 minutes, governors and ministers praised Disu’s professionalism. Lagos Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu highlighted his RRS tenure, Nasarawa Governor Abdullahi Sule commended his career excellence, and FCT Minister Nyesom Wike noted his efficiency in tackling security issues in Rivers and the FCT. Enugu Governor Peter Mbah seconded the endorsement motion.

However, Disu’s tenure may be brief, as he approaches the mandatory retirement age of 60 in April 2026, giving him roughly a month in office. This has sparked discussions online, with some Nigerians expressing skepticism about the short-term appointment and calling for deeper reforms in the police force. Comments on platforms like Nairaland reflect mixed reactions: while some wish him success and note his solid record, others criticize it as “initial gra gra” (hype) and urge action against roadside extortion by officers.

In one of his first actions as IGP, Disu inaugurated a seven-man committee to develop frameworks for state police, in compliance with President Tinubu’s directive on restructuring Nigeria’s security architecture. This move addresses ongoing calls for decentralization amid rising insecurity.

Reactions to Disu’s appointment have poured in from various quarters. Former federal lawmaker Shina Peller hailed it, expressing optimism for a more disciplined and accountable NPF. Renowned estate developer Alhaji Mutairu Owoeye described the elevation as “richly deserved.” A viral video also showed Deputy Inspector-General Frank Mba saluting Disu during his first official assignment, symbolizing cooperation despite reports of Mba’s potential retirement.

As Nigeria grapples with security challenges, Disu’s tough talk on accountability signals a potential shift toward reforming the police force from within. Nigerians will be watching closely to see if his words translate into tangible actions during his brief but pivotal tenure.