Abuja is set to formally confirm its new police head on Monday as President Bola Tinubu convenes the Nigeria Police Council. The meeting follows the abrupt resignation of former Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, last Tuesday. While Mr Egbetokun officially cited “family issues” for his departure, reports suggest he was asked to step down following a late-night meeting at the Presidential Villa.
Formalising the transition
The council is expected to ratify the appointment of AIG Tunji Disu, who has been leading the force in an acting capacity since Wednesday. In a statement, presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga confirmed the move was in line with the Police Act 2020.”President Tinubu will convene a meeting… to formally consider the appointment of AIG Disu as substantive Inspector-General of Police,” the statement read. Once approved, the nomination will be sent to the Senate for final confirmation.
High-level attendance
The Police Council is a powerful body chaired by the President. Its membership reflects the country’s federal structure, including:
All 36 state governors, the Chairman of the Police Service Commission and the Inspector-General of Police.
The gathering at the State House on Monday saw a significant turnout of the Nigerian political elite, including Vice President Kashim Shettima and several influential state governors.
Who is AIG Disu?
At 59, AIG Disu is a seasoned veteran within the Nigerian police establishment. He takes the helm at a critical time for West Africa’s most populous nation, which continues to grapple with multifaceted security challenges, from kidnapping syndicates to regional insurgencies. The transition marks a swift shift in leadership for a force that is often under international scrutiny regarding human rights and internal reform.
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