Police Leadership Reset: Tunji Disu Replaces Kayode Egbetokun as Nigeria's IGP

Tunji Disu and Kayode Egbetokun

President Bola Tinubu has appointed Tunji Disu as the Acting Inspector-General of Police, IGP, following Kayode Egbetokun's resignation. The presidency confirmed that Egbetokun’s resignation has been accepted, and according to a statement issued by Bayo Onanuga, the former IGP cited “pressing family considerations” for stepping down.

For many Nigerians, this quick transition raises important questions; Why now? What does this mean for the police? And who exactly is Tunji Disu?

The Background: Egbetokun’s Tenure and the Controversy

Egbetokun was appointed IGP on June 19, 2023, replacing Usman Baba. At the time of his appointment, the Police Act 2020 provided that the Inspector-General of Police would serve a four-year term.

However, there was a complication. Egbetokun was born on September 4, 1964, meaning he turned 60 in September 2024, the mandatory retirement age under civil service rules. This created a debate; should he retire at 60, or complete the four-year tenure provided under the Police Act?

In July 2024, the National Assembly amended the Police Act to allow the IGP to remain in office until the end of the term stipulated in his appointment letter. That amendment effectively cleared the way for Egbetokun to stay until June 2027.

Some critics questioned whether the amendment was made specifically to extend his tenure. Others argued that the law simply clarified the intention of a fixed four-year term.

Despite the controversy, Egbetokun remained in office until his sudden resignation.

The Appointment of Tunji Disu

With Egbetokun’s exit, President Tinubu moved swiftly to appoint Tunji Disu as Acting IGP. However, Disu’s appointment is not yet permanent.

In line with the Police Act 2020, the President is expected to convene a meeting of the Nigeria Police Council to formally consider his appointment. After that, his name will be sent to the Senate for confirmation before he can become the substantive IGP.

Who Is Tunji Disu?

Tunji Disu is a seasoned police officer with over three decades of experience. He joined the Nigeria Police Force in 1992 and has served in several strategic roles across the country.

Academically, Disu holds a Bachelor’s degree in English Education from Lagos State University. He also has master’s degrees in Public Administration, Criminology, and Security and Legal Psychology.

His career includes serving as:

        •       Commander of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) in Lagos

        •       Head of the Intelligence Response Team

        •       Commissioner of Police in Rivers State

        •       Commissioner of Police in the Federal Capital Territory

        •       AIG in charge of the Special Protection Unit

Earlier this month, he resumed as Assistant Inspector-General of Police at the Force Criminal Investigation Department, FCID Annex in Alagbon, Lagos.

These roles have placed him at the heart of crime prevention, intelligence gathering, and high-level investigations. His experience cuts across operations, intelligence, and administration, areas that are critical to modern policing.

What This Means for the Nigeria Police Force

Leadership transitions often come with expectations.

Nigeria is currently facing multiple security challenges, including banditry, kidnapping, cybercrime, and communal violence. Many citizens are concerned about response times, accountability, and public trust in the police.

Disu steps into office at a time when Nigerians are demanding:

        •       More effective crime control

        •       Better intelligence coordination

        •       Greater professionalism within the force

        •       Improved police-community relations

His academic background suggests he understands the theoretical side of policing, while his field experience shows he understands operational realities.

The real question now is whether he will introduce reforms or maintain continuity with existing strategies.

A Test of Leadership and Public Trust

The Nigeria Police Force is one of the most visible institutions in the country. Its leadership affects not just internal operations but also public confidence.

Egbetokun’s tenure was shaped by legal debates about tenure and retirement rules. Disu’s leadership, on the other hand, may be judged more by performance, especially in tackling insecurity.

In the coming days, attention will turn to the Nigeria Police Council meeting and the Senate confirmation process. Nigerians will also be watching for early signs of Disu’s leadership style, whether through policy statements, operational changes, or new security initiatives.

For now, one thing is clear; a new chapter has begun at the top of the Nigeria Police Force.