Egbetokun Hands Over as 22nd IGP, Disu Assumes Office as 23rd Acting Inspector-General of Police

Urbanscopnews reporting

The 22nd Inspector-General of Police, Olukayode Adeolu Egbetokun, PhD, NPM, has formally passed the baton of leadership to the 23rd Acting Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, following the acceptance of his resignation by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.

The development marks a significant transition in the leadership of the Nigeria Police Force, coming after IGP Egbetokun submitted his resignation letter, citing pressing family considerations. The Presidency, in a statement from the State House, expressed appreciation for his dedicated service to the nation and his contributions toward strengthening internal security and reforming key operational frameworks within the Force during his tenure.

At a brief but symbolic handover ceremony held at the Force Headquarters in Abuja, Egbetokun formally transferred authority to Acting IGP Disu, charging him to remain steadfast, professional, and committed to the constitutional mandate of safeguarding lives and property. He thanked officers and men of the Force for their loyalty and cooperation throughout his time in office, emphasizing that policing requires unity, discipline, and integrity at all levels.

Egbetokun, who was appointed as the 22nd Inspector-General of Police in June 2023, led the Force through a period of evolving security challenges, institutional reforms, and strategic realignments aimed at enhancing operational effectiveness. His administration prioritized intelligence-led policing, improved inter-agency collaboration, and capacity building for officers across commands nationwide.

In his remarks, Acting IGP Tunji Disu expressed profound gratitude to President Tinubu for the confidence reposed in him and pledged to consolidate on the achievements of his predecessor. He assured Nigerians of his commitment to professionalism, rule of law, and sustained efforts to combat crime and insecurity across the country. Disu further reiterated the importance of community engagement and modern policing strategies in addressing contemporary security threats.

The transition is in line with statutory provisions guiding leadership succession in the Nigeria Police Force, as the President is expected to forward the nomination of the Acting IGP to the Nigeria Police Council and subsequently to the Senate for confirmation in due course.

The leadership change ushers in a new chapter for the Nigeria Police Force, with expectations high among stakeholders for continuity, stability, and renewed vigor in the fight against crime and the protection of democratic values in Nigeria.