IGP Disu confirmed after Egbetokun’s exit

The Nigeria Police Council on Monday confirmed the appointment of Tunji Disu as the substantive Inspector-General of Police, ending days of speculation over the force’s leadership.

The decision was taken at the Council’s meeting, chaired by President Bola Tinubu at the State House, Abuja.

Mr Disu’s confirmation clears the way for his formal swearing-in on Wednesday.

Briefing State House correspondents after the meeting, presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga says Senate confirmation is not required for the appointment.

He cited provisions of the amended Police Act to support the position.

 “There is no requirement for Senate confirmation for the appointment of the Inspector-General of Police under the amended Police Act,” Onanuga said.

Mr Disu was appointed and decorated as acting IGP on 24th February. He succeeds Kayode Egbetokun, who led the force for three years.

The new IGP’s appointment comes 48 days before his statutory retirement. However, under the amended Police Act passed in July 2024, an IGP serves a single four-year term regardless of age or years of service, unless he resigns or is removed by the President.

Background

Before the amendment, police officers were required to retire at age 60 or after 35 years of service.

Mr Disu, born in 1966, will turn 60 on November 13, 2026. Under the previous law, he would have been required to retire upon reaching that age or completing 35 years in service.

The amendment became a subject of national debate during Egbetokun’s tenure. He was 58 when appointed and completed 35 years in service in March 2025.

Removal of Former IGP

Sources who asked not to be named indicate that President Tinubu requested Egbetokun’s resignation last week.

The reasons reportedly include his opposition to the creation of state police, a policy being championed by the President.

He was also said to have been slow in implementing a directive on the withdrawal of police personnel from Very Important Persons.

Another factor cited by sources is his blocklisting by the International Press Institute in Nigeria.

Mr Disu’s confirmation provides immediate stability at the helm of the Nigeria Police Force at a time when security reform remains a key national priority.

With a guaranteed four-year tenure under the amended law, his leadership is expected to shape ongoing discussions around policing reforms, state police, and internal restructuring within the force.