BREAKING: Tinubu Sacks IGP Kayode Egbetokun, Appoints AIG Tunji Disu as Acting Police Chief in Major Security Shake-Up

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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has accepted the resignation of Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun and immediately appointed Assistant Inspector-General (AIG) Olatunji “Tunji” Disu as Acting Inspector-General of Police, triggering a significant leadership transition within the Nigeria Police Force.

The Presidency confirmed the development through Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, who stated that Egbetokun voluntarily tendered his resignation, citing personal family matters that require his full attention.

However, sources within government circles indicated that the resignation followed a meeting between President Tinubu and Egbetokun at the Presidential Villa on Monday evening, amid growing national security concerns and mounting pressure over rising insecurity across parts of the country.

Egbetokun, the 22nd substantive IGP, assumed office on June 19, 2023, and was formally confirmed on October 31, 2023, after serving initially in an acting capacity following the retirement of his predecessor, Usman Baba. During his tenure, he prioritized community policing initiatives, intelligence-driven operations, and anti-kidnapping strategies. His administration, however, faced criticism over persistent insecurity challenges and concerns regarding police accountability and operational effectiveness.

In line with provisions of the Police Act 2020, President Tinubu is expected to convene the Nigeria Police Council soon to review and formalize Disu’s appointment as substantive IGP. His name will subsequently be forwarded to the Senate for confirmation.

Who Is Tunji Disu?

Born on April 13, 1966, Olatunji Rilwan Disu is a seasoned career police officer with over three decades of service in the Nigeria Police Force.

He recently served as Assistant Inspector-General overseeing the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) Annex in Alagbon, Lagos. His distinguished career includes key leadership roles such as:

• Commissioner of Police in Rivers State
• Commissioner of Police in the Federal Capital Territory (Abuja)
• Head of the Intelligence Response Team (IRT)
• Senior operational and investigative command positions across the country

Disu is widely regarded as an intelligence-focused and operationally experienced officer. Supporters highlight his investigative background and leadership record, with public figures describing him as disciplined, analytical, and effective in complex security operations.

The appointment bypassed several Deputy Inspectors-General of Police, prompting mixed reactions across security and political circles. While supporters applaud the decision as a bold move to strengthen law enforcement leadership, critics question the timing and selection process amid ongoing security challenges such as banditry, kidnapping, armed robbery, and electoral preparations.

The Nigeria Police Force is expected to announce a formal handover ceremony soon. This development marks the third Inspector-General transition under President Tinubu’s administration, underscoring the strategic importance of police leadership in Nigeria’s national security architecture.

Authorities say further policy direction and operational priorities from the new acting police chief will be communicated in the coming days.