Inspector General Tunji Disu Demands Professionalism From Police Officers, Cites Taxpayers as Essential "Bosses"

IGP Tunji Disu orders Nigerian police officers to treat citizens with civility, reminding the Force they are paid by taxpayers. Read about his visit to Lagos.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 25, 2026, 11:00 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Peoples Gazette

A Call for Respect and Human Rights Compliance

Inspector-General of Police Tunji Disu has issued a clear directive to the Nigeria Police Force, demanding a shift toward greater professionalism and civility in their daily interactions with the public. Speaking at the Lagos State Governor’s Office in Alausa, the IGP stressed that the legitimacy of the police is inextricably linked to how they treat ordinary citizens. He reminded officers that the public should be viewed not just as subjects of law enforcement, but as the "bosses" of the institution, given that the Force is funded through taxpayer contributions. This mandate is part of a broader effort to repair the relationship between the police and the community following years of friction over civil rights.

Strengthening Ties Between Law Enforcement and the Press

During his visit, the IGP took the opportunity to engage with Lagos State Governor’s Office Correspondents, reflecting on his own career trajectory. Having previously served as the commander of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) in Lagos, Disu highlighted the importance of media cooperation in modern policing. He noted that the press serves as a vital bridge between the authorities and the public, facilitating transparency and accountability. By returning to his former base, the IGP signaled a leadership style rooted in accessibility and stakeholder engagement, encouraging officers to view journalists and community leaders as partners in maintaining public safety.

Directive to the Rapid Response Squad on Discipline

Addressing the officers of the RRS specifically, the IGP warned against any conduct that could tarnish the reputation of the elite unit. He insisted that the effectiveness of policing is measured by the trust and cooperation it elicits from the neighborhood. Disu’s visit to the RRS base was intended to reinforce discipline at the operational level, ensuring that the directives issued from the national headquarters are implemented on the streets of Lagos. He maintained that without the support of the community, even the most technologically advanced policing strategies are destined to fail.