The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, convened an emergency security conference with top commanders of the Nigeria Police Force in Abuja, issuing fresh directives aimed at strengthening accountability and tackling rising security threats nationwide.
The high-level meeting, held at the Force Headquarters, brought together members of the Force Management Team, Assistant Inspectors-General of Police, Commissioners of Police, and journalists to deliberate on pressing national security concerns and operational reforms.
In his address, the IGP stressed the need for transparency, discipline, and responsible leadership across all ranks, noting that Nigeria’s evolving security landscape requires a more intelligence-driven and accountable policing strategy.
Disu also took a firm stance on misconduct within the Force, specifically condemning the recent extra-judicial killing of a suspect in Delta State.
He described the act as unlawful and a violation of police ethics, confirming that the officers involved had been dismissed and would face criminal prosecution.
He reiterated that the Force maintains zero tolerance for abuse of power and that no officer is above the law.
Highlighting recent operational successes, the police chief revealed that intelligence-led operations in April 2026 resulted in the arrest of 28 suspected terrorists, 51 murder suspects, 62 armed robbery suspects, 85 kidnapping suspects, and 54 suspected cultists.
He added that 189 kidnapped victims were rescued, while operatives recovered 140 firearms, 1,074 rounds of ammunition, and 37 stolen vehicles.
As part of ongoing reforms, Disu announced the creation of a new tactical formation, the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU), designed to respond more effectively to serious and violent crimes.
He explained that the unit would rely on intelligence-based deployment, specialised training, and strict adherence to human rights standards, with Commissioners of Police held directly accountable for its operations.
The IGP further directed Commissioners nationwide to deepen community policing efforts by engaging regularly with traditional rulers, religious leaders, and other stakeholders through town hall meetings.
He also mandated that police commissioners make their contact details readily available to community leaders to enhance communication and public trust.
Reaffirming the Force’s reform agenda, Disu said the ongoing changes are focused on professionalism, discipline, respect for human rights, and improved public accountability, supported by accessible channels such as the Police Complaints Response Unit.
He assured Nigerians of the Police Force’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property while upholding the rule of law.
