Okon Placid Replaces Hundeyin As Police Force PRO, Giwa Heads Social Media

Lagos, Nigeria – In a significant restructuring at the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) headquarters, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Disu, has approved the appointment of Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Anthony Okon Placid as the new Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO). This move comes as part of ongoing efforts to enhance communication, media relations, and public engagement within the force.

The appointment was officially announced by the NPF on its official X handle on Saturday, marking the end of Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Benjamin Hundeyin’s brief tenure in the role. Hundeyin, who assumed the position in September 2025, was relieved of his duties after approximately six months, following internal changes initiated shortly after IGP Disu’s appointment as the 23rd Inspector-General by President Bola Tinubu.

Sources within the police headquarters in Abuja confirmed to multiple outlets that Hundeyin has been replaced by DCP Placid, with an official announcement expected imminently. One source told SaharaReporters, “Hundeyin has been replaced by Okon Placid; the official announcement will be made later.”

As previously reported by NaijaChoice News, the IGP had yet to officially appoint a substantive FPRO following Hundeyin’s removal, amid speculations about potential candidates. Earlier reports suggested that Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Aliyu Giwa might emerge as the next spokesperson. However, sources clarified that Giwa’s role is limited to handling the police’s social media operations.

In addition to the change in spokesperson, the police leadership has created a new unit known as the New Media Office to bolster the force’s digital communication and engagement strategies. CSP Ali Giwa has been appointed to head this newly established office, which aims to modernize the NPF’s approach to online interactions and public outreach.

DCP Anthony Okon Placid brings a wealth of experience to his new role. Born on December 2, 1970, in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Placid holds a Bachelor of Science in Geography and Regional Planning from the University of Uyo, a Master of Arts in Law and Diplomacy from the University of Jos, and has studied Law at the National Open University of Nigeria. He joined the NPF as a Cadet Assistant Superintendent in 1996 and has served in various capacities, including Police Public Relations Officer in Adamawa State and the Police Staff College in Jos, as well as international roles in United Nations missions in Sudan and Darfur.

Placid is a member of the International Association of Chiefs of Police and has attended numerous professional courses, including those on peacekeeping, human rights, and international humanitarian law. He is also a graduate of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) and was inducted as a Member of the National Institute in December 2025.

The outgoing FPRO, ACP Benjamin Hundeyin, was noted for his active engagement on social media platforms during his tenure, often addressing public concerns and defending police actions in high-profile cases. His removal has been described as part of routine leadership adjustments under the new IGP, with no specific reasons publicly disclosed.

This development underscores the NPF’s commitment to reforming its public image and operational efficiency, especially in an era where digital media plays a crucial role in law enforcement transparency and community relations.