Citizens are the Bosses: Acting IGP Olatunji Disu Vows End to Impunity, Corruption in Nigeria Police Force

By Emmanuel Kwada

In a bold declaration signaling major reforms, the newly appointed Acting Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has asserted that Nigerian citizens are the true bosses of the police and promised an end to impunity, zero tolerance for corruption, and improved welfare for officers.

Speaking shortly after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu decorated him with his new rank at the State House in Abuja on Wednesday, Disu emphasized a people-centered approach to policing. “Being appointed IGP, my top priority is to let my men know citizens are the boss,” he stated.

He further pledged, “I will take the welfare of my men into consideration because people who are motivated put in their best. My men will know impunity is over. And there will be zero corruption.”

Disu’s statements come amid high public expectations for change in the Nigeria Police Force, which has long faced criticism over allegations of brutality, extortion, and rights abuses. The acting IGP stressed the need for officers to respect human rights, undergo training, and build cooperation with the public to succeed in their duties.

“We can never succeed without the cooperation of members of the public,” he added.

President Tinubu, who accepted the resignation of the previous IGP, Kayode Egbetokun (effective February 24, 2026), tasked Disu with restoring peace, strengthening discipline, and tackling insecurity, including banditry, across the country. Tinubu assured the new police chief of full presidential support in these efforts.

Disu, born April 13, 1966, in Lagos Island, Lagos State, brings over three decades of experience to the role as the 23rd indigenous Inspector-General of Police.

Prior to his appointment, he served in key positions, including as Commander of the Rapid Response Squad in Lagos and head of the Federal Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) Annex.

His appointment, announced following Egbetokun’s exit for family reasons, has been described by Disu himself as unexpected and humbling.

The new IGP has pledged to consolidate ongoing reforms while prioritizing internal discipline, accountability, and morale-boosting measures for personnel.

Observers note that his focus on officer welfare could address longstanding issues like poor pay, inadequate equipment, and delayed entitlements that have contributed to vulnerabilities within the force.

Disu’s assurances have already drawn attention from civil society groups and the public, with calls for concrete actions to back his words, including enhanced accountability mechanisms and swift investigations into past misconduct.

As Disu officially assumes duty and begins implementing his vision, the coming months will test whether these promises translate into tangible improvements in policing and public trust in Nigeria.