President Bola Tinubu has appointed Assistant Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Disu as Acting Inspector-General of Police (IGP), following the resignation of Kayode Egbetokun.
The leadership change comes as Nigeria intensifies security preparations ahead of the 2027 general elections. Egbetokun, who assumed office in June 2023, reportedly stepped down citing family reasons.
His tenure had generated debate after reaching the statutory retirement age in 2024, though it was extended under amendments to the Police Act. The Presidency confirmed that his resignation was accepted with immediate effect.
Disu’s appointment signals a strategic security reshuffle at a critical political period. Before his elevation, he served as AIG in charge of the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) Annex in Lagos.
He previously held key positions, including Commissioner of Police for the Federal Capital Territory and Rivers State, as well as leadership roles within the Intelligence Response Team and Rapid Response Squad in Lagos.
Under the Police Act 2020, the President is expected to convene the Nigeria Police Council to formalize Disu’s nomination as substantive IGP, after which the Senate will confirm the appointment.
Senior DIGs, AIGs Face Possible Retirement
Disu’s emergence as Acting IGP could trigger a wave of retirements among senior officers.
Police tradition often requires Deputy Inspectors-General (DIGs) and some Assistant Inspectors-General (AIGs) who are senior to a newly appointed IGP to step aside to preserve command structure and discipline.
Sources within the Police Service Commission suggest that between 15 and 20 senior officers may resign if the practice is upheld.
Such exits could open promotion opportunities for Commissioners of Police, Deputy Commissioners, and other high-ranking officers.
Security Reforms and 2027 Election Readiness
Retired police chiefs have described the leadership transition as timely, citing Nigeria’s evolving security challenges.
Analysts say the appointment aims to strengthen operational efficiency, institutional discipline, and election security planning ahead of 2027.
With mounting security concerns nationwide, Disu now faces the task of reinforcing public trust, combating violent crime, and ensuring a stable environment for democratic processes.
