By Uloma Peace Okorie
The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, on Tuesday convened an emergency conference with senior strategic leadership of the Nigeria Police Force at the Force Headquarters in Abuja, announcing sweeping reforms aimed at strengthening accountability and enhancing national security.
The high-level meeting brought together members of the Force Management Team, Assistant Inspectors-General of Police, Commissioners of Police, as well as members of the press. It focused on addressing pressing security concerns and outlining new operational directives for commands and formations across the country.
In his address, IGP Disu stressed the need for transparency, discipline, and leadership responsibility, noting that Nigeria’s evolving security landscape requires a more responsive and intelligence-driven policing approach.
He also addressed a recent incident in Delta State involving the extra-judicial killing of a suspect, describing the act as unlawful and contrary to the core values of the Force. The IGP confirmed that the officers involved have been dismissed, while the matter has been forwarded for criminal prosecution. He reiterated the Force’s zero-tolerance stance on misconduct, emphasising that no officer is above the law.
Highlighting recent operational achievements, the police chief disclosed that intelligence-led operations in April 2026 led to 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 successfully rescued, while 140 firearms, 1,074 rounds of ammunition, and 37 stolen vehicles were recovered.
As part of ongoing reforms, IGP Disu announced the establishment of the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU), a restructured tactical formation designed to enhance the Force’s capacity to combat serious and violent crimes. The unit, he said, will operate strictly on intelligence-based deployment, supported by specialised training, human rights compliance, and strict accountability measures, with Commissioners of Police directly responsible for oversight.
The IGP further directed all Commissioners of Police to strengthen community policing through regular town hall meetings with stakeholders, including traditional rulers, religious leaders, and community groups. He also mandated that Commissioners make their contact details accessible to community leaders to improve communication and build public trust.
Reaffirming his commitment to reform, IGP Disu noted that ongoing changes within the Force are anchored on professionalism, discipline, human rights compliance, and public accountability, supported by mechanisms such as the Police Complaints Response Unit.
He assured Nigerians that the Nigeria Police Force remains committed to institutional reforms, improved operational efficiency, and the protection of lives and property.