President Tinubu Accepts Egbetokun’s Resignation, Appoints Tunji Disu as Acting Inspector-General of Police

 President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has accepted the resignation of Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun and immediately appointed Assistant Inspector-General of Police Tunji Disu to serve as Acting Inspector-General with effect from today, February 24, 2026.

The announcement came through official channels, including a statement from the Presidency, where Special Adviser on Information and Strategy Bayo Onanuga confirmed the transition. According to reports, Egbetokun submitted his resignation letter citing pressing family considerations that demand his full attention. While the official explanation points to personal reasons, sources close to the Presidency and police headquarters indicate that the decision followed discussions, including a meeting between Egbetokun and President Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Monday evening.

Egbetokun, who was appointed as the 22nd Inspector-General of Police by President Tinubu on June 19, 2023, and had his appointment ratified by the Nigeria Police Council later that year, had seen his tenure extended in the past. His time in office was marked by efforts to address various security challenges across the country, including efforts to modernize policing strategies and respond to rising incidents of crime and instability. However, the sudden shift features the President's focus on ensuring strong leadership amid ongoing national security demands.

Tunji Disu, the new Acting IGP, brings a wealth of experience to the role. Currently an Assistant Inspector-General, Disu has served in key positions, including heading the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) Annex in Alagbon, Lagos. Known for his operational expertise and track record in investigative and intelligence work, he is viewed by many as a capable hand to steer the Nigeria Police Force through its current challenges. Preparations are reportedly underway for a formal handover ceremony, after which Disu is expected to assume full responsibilities in acting capacity, pending any further constitutional processes such as Senate confirmation if elevated to substantive IGP.

The Presidency emphasized that the appointment was made "in view of the current security challenges confronting the nation" and in line with relevant laws and legal guidance. This move reflects President Tinubu's administration's commitment to decisive action in bolstering law enforcement and maintaining public safety across Nigeria's diverse regions.

The Nigeria Police Force, one of the largest in Africa, faces persistent issues ranging from banditry and kidnapping in the northwest and north-central zones to separatist agitations in the southeast and communal clashes elsewhere. Under the new acting leadership, there is anticipation that renewed strategies could help address these threats more effectively, building on ongoing reforms in community policing, technology integration, and officer welfare.

Egbetokun's departure marks the end of a chapter that began shortly after the 2023 general elections, during which the police played a central role in maintaining order. His resignation has sparked discussions among analysts and stakeholders about the future direction of policing in Nigeria, with many calling for sustained reforms to enhance professionalism, accountability, and public trust in the force.

As Tunji Disu steps into the spotlight, all eyes will be on how he navigates these complexities. His appointment signals continuity in leadership while introducing fresh perspectives from someone with deep roots in criminal investigations and force administration. The police community and Nigerians at large will be watching  to see how this transition influences the fight against insecurity and the wide goal of safer communities nationwide.

This leadership change comes at a time when the government continues to prioritize security as a cornerstone of national development. President Tinubu's acceptance of the resignation and prompt naming of a successor emphasize the administration's proactive stance on governance and institutional stability. Further details on the handover and any additional reforms are expected in the coming days as the new acting IGP settles into office.