The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has declared that there will be no preferential treatment for erring officers under his leadership, stressing that professionalism, accountability, and respect for human rights will define the new direction of the Force.
Disu made the assertion during his inaugural conference with senior police officers at the Peacekeeping Conference Centre, Force Headquarters, Abuja, where he emphasised that the Nigeria Police Force would not tolerate any action capable of undermining public trust, violating human rights, or eroding institutional credibility.
“There will be no sacred cows,” the IGP stated firmly, noting that human rights observance is not optional but fundamental to effective and professional policing.
According to him, upholding the rule of law and maintaining moral authority are critical to restoring and sustaining public confidence in the Force. He disclosed that internal accountability structures would be strengthened and shielded from undue interference to ensure transparency and fairness.
Disu said units such as the Force Provost, the Complaint Response Unit, and the X-Squad would be empowered to function independently and decisively in investigating cases of misconduct, abuse of authority, corruption, and other unprofessional acts.
“The message must be unequivocal: no officer is above the law. Citizens must feel secure in reporting wrongdoing, and officers must understand that loyalty to the Force does not include protecting misconduct or tolerating indiscipline,” he said.
He further warned that rank, seniority, or position would not shield any officer found culpable, adding that swift disciplinary measures, including dismissal and prosecution where necessary, would be applied.
The IGP observed that the legitimacy and effectiveness of the Police depend largely on public trust, noting that authority is weakened once that trust is compromised.
Addressing the officers, Disu remarked that leadership is defined not by title but by responsibility, adding that he is fully aware of the expectations placed on him by officers and the Nigerian people.
“The Nigeria Police Force exists to serve the people, protect the nation, and uphold the rule of law. These are not abstract ideals but daily responsibilities,” he said.
He assured that under his administration, professionalism, accountability, and transparency would become operational standards rather than mere slogans.
In an era of heightened public scrutiny and rapid information dissemination, Disu reminded officers that every action taken by an individual officer reflects on the entire Force.
“Authority is most effective when exercised with restraint, fairness, and sound judgment. While the uniform grants lawful powers, it is our conduct and decisions that ultimately confer legitimacy,” he added.
