Police Chiefs Put on Notice: IGP Disu Demands Professionalism, Accountability

The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has issued a stern warning to Police Commissioners across the nation, emphasizing the need for strict adherence to professional standards and respect for human rights. During a meeting with Police Strategic Managers at the Goodluck Ebele Jonathan Peacekeeping Hall in Abuja, Disu stressed that any form of misconduct, including illegal detention and abuse of office, would not be tolerated under his leadership. He underscored the importance of disciplined leadership, accountability, and public confidence in effective policing. Disu charged the police commanders to set the right standards and maintain the trust of the communities they serve, noting that 'effective policing starts with effective leadership.' As commissioners of police and strategic commanders, they have a responsibility to uphold professionalism, respect human rights, and ensure strict adherence to due process. The IGP urged the CPs to ensure their commands remain operationally ready while holding officers to high standards of professionalism, discipline, and respect for citizens' rights. He cautioned that corruption, extortion, abuse of authority, unlawful detention, and other unethical conduct would undermine the efforts of the Nigeria Police Force to deliver effective service. Disu also directed commissioners to strengthen community policing through deeper engagement with traditional leaders, religious leaders, youth and women groups, community associations, and other local stakeholders, describing such partnerships as essential to preventing crime. 'Community policing is not a side programme; it is the foundation on which effective policing rests. Our engagement with the communities we serve must be genuine, because their partnership is central to crime prevention,' the IGP said. Earlier, Disu decorated 13 newly promoted Assistant Inspectors-General of Police and 17 newly promoted Commissioners of Police, urging them to lead with integrity, fairness, and a strong sense of responsibility, while maintaining zero tolerance for misconduct and corruption.