BREAKING: Tinubu Fires Egbetokun, Appoints Judo Champion Tunji Disu As New Police Chief Amid Major Shake-Up
President Bola Tinubu has appointed Tunji Disu as the Acting Inspector-General of Police, following the resignation of Kayode Egbetokun. Egbetokun's tenure was marked by controversies and allegations of misconduct, while Disu's appointment is met with cautious optimism from civil society groups who have set a clear reform agenda for the new police chief. This leadership change is also expected to lead to the retirement of numerous senior police officers.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed Tunji Disu as the Acting Inspector-General of Police (IGP), following the resignation of Kayode Egbetokun.
Official statements attribute Egbetokun’s departure to “pressing family considerations,” though reports suggest health issues and alleged misconduct may have influenced the decision.
His tenure, which was initially scheduled to end in 2027, faced criticism for violations of police service rules, favoritism in promotions, and allegations of misappropriation of funds.
Disu, born April 13, 1966, in Lagos Island, joined the Nigeria Police Force in 1992.
He holds degrees in English, Public Administration, Criminology, Security, and Legal Psychology.
His career includes leadership of the Police Intelligence Response Team, the Rapid Response Squad in Lagos, and the Force Criminal Investigation Department.
He has served as Commissioner of Police in Rivers State and the FCT and commanded Nigeria’s contingent to the African Union Peacekeeping Mission in Darfur.
Disu is also a veteran Judoka and a member of multiple professional associations.
The appointment is expected to trigger a reshuffle affecting senior officers, including Deputy Inspectors General (DIGs) and AIGs.
Potentially impacted officials include DIG Adebola Hamzat, DIG Yahaya Abubakar, DIG Bzigwu Kwazhi, DIG Adebowale Williams, DIG Idris Abubakar, AIG Frank Mba, DIG Basil Idegwu, and DIG Mohammed Gumel.
Civil society groups such as RULAAC have welcomed the change with cautious optimism, urging Disu to implement reforms focused on welfare, accountability regarding unresolved allegations in Awkuzu, Anambra State, and ensuring neutrality and professionalism during the 2027 elections.
His ability to scale up humane policing practices will likely define his tenure as IGP.