President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday decorated Tunji Disu with his new rank as the acting Inspector-General of Police at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
The ceremony, held at the President’s office around 4pm, was attended by Nuhu Ribadu, national security adviser, chief of staff Femi Gbajabiamila, George Akume, secretary to the government of the federation, and former IGP Kayode Egbetokun.
Tinubu personally pinned the new insignia on Disu’s uniform and praised Egbetokun for his service to the country.
Disu’s appointment followed Egbetokun’s resignation on Tuesday.
In a statement, presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga said, “The IGP resigned in a letter today, citing family issues which require his undivided attention.”
However, sources within the Presidency said Egbetokun was asked to step down during a meeting with the President at the Presidential Villa.
Disu will serve in acting capacity pending confirmation by the Nigeria Police Council and the Senate.
Onanuga said the President would soon convene the Police Council to consider the appointment.
According to him, “in compliance with the provisions of the Police Act 2020, President Tinubu will convene a meeting of the Nigeria Police Council shortly to formally consider the appointment of AIG Disu as substantive Inspector-General of Police, after which his name will be transmitted to the Senate for confirmation.”
The appointment came about 48 days before Disu’s scheduled retirement on April 13, 2026.
However, the amended Police Act allows an Inspector-General of Police to serve a four-year tenure regardless of age.
His elevation is also expected to trigger the retirement of several senior officers. A police source said the development could lead to the exit of many senior officers.
The source said, “going by recent practice, Disu’s seniors might have to submit their resignation letters. We might have those who may wish to stay behind and salute their juniors.
“Apart from the nine DIGs, the AIGs who are senior to him are not many. Between 15 and 20 may resign.”
Born on April 13, 1966, Disu joined the Nigeria police force in 1992 and has served in various operational and leadership roles, including commissioner of police in Rivers state and the federal capital territory.
He was assistant inspector-general in charge of the force criminal investigation department annex, Alagbon, Lagos, before his appointment.
