The newly appointed Acting Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, on Wednesday formally assumed office, pledging sweeping reforms anchored on professionalism, accountability, and community partnership to restore public confidence in the Nigeria Police Force.

Disu took over from his predecessor, Olukayode Egbetokun, during a handover ceremony, declaring that his tenure would be guided by three core pillars: professionalism and modernisation, accountability and integrity, and community partnership and public trust.

He acknowledged existing challenges within the force, including a trust deficit with communities, outdated systems, resource gaps, and misconduct in some quarters, describing them as “uncomfortable truths” that must be confronted.

“These are truths we must face with resolve to reposition the Nigeria Police as a trusted, people-oriented institution,” he said.

Reform Pillars

Disu said the police would embrace intelligence-led policing, forensic investigations, and digital tools, stressing that modern methods—not intimidation or abuse of authority—would define operations.

On accountability, he warned that impunity would no longer be tolerated.

“The badge is a symbol of public trust. Anyone who treats it otherwise will face the full consequences of our disciplinary processes,” he stated, adding that oversight mechanisms would be strengthened and processes made more transparent.

He also emphasised community policing as a philosophy rather than a programme, pledging to deepen engagement with citizens through town halls, markets, schools, and neighbourhood interactions.

Message to Officers and Citizens

Addressing officers, Disu promised to prioritise their welfare and working conditions while demanding integrity, compassion, and courage in service.

To citizens, he called for cooperation, urging Nigerians to report crime, engage local officers, and hold the police accountable.

“We are not your adversaries. We are your neighbours in uniform, and your safety is the only measure of our success,” he said.

Appreciation and Commitment

Disu thanked Bola Tinubu for the confidence reposed in him, describing his appointment as a heavy responsibility rather than a moment for celebration.

He also acknowledged the contributions of past Inspectors-General, pledging to build on the foundations they laid while steering the force toward reform.

“The road ahead is not smooth,” he noted. “There will be resistance and hard choices, but my commitment to transforming this Service into one every citizen can trust will not waver.”

With his assumption of office, Disu signalled the start of what he described as a decisive effort to reposition the Nigeria Police as a modern, accountable, and community-focused institution.
By Kingsley Omonobi
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