By Adegbaju Temitope
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Wednesday charged the Acting Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, to restore peace and strengthen security across the country, declaring that the safety of lives and property must remain the highest priority of law enforcement.
The President gave the directive at the State House during the decoration of Disu as Acting Inspector-General of Police, following the retirement of Kayode Egbetokun and pending ratification of the appointment by the Nigeria Police Council as well as confirmation by the Senate.
The Council is expected to meet next week.
Speaking at the ceremony, Tinubu said the decision to appoint Disu was informed by his track record and dedication to duty.
“I made this decision for you to assume this responsibility. I know your record. I saw the dedication you exhibited while you were in Lagos when I was governor,” the President stated.
Describing the appointment as coming at a critical juncture, Tinubu urged the Acting IGP to rebuild public confidence in the capacity of the Nigeria Police Force to discharge its constitutional mandate in collaboration with other security agencies.
“Lead firmly but fairly, demand professionalism at every level and ensure that the safety of lives and property remains our highest priority. It’s a daunting challenge. I know you can do it. You have my word, you have my full support,” he added.
The President further tasked Disu with advancing the security pillars of his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, expressing confidence in his discipline, operational experience and leadership capacity to address the nation’s security challenges.
“Nigeria is challenged with banditry, terrorism and other criminal activities. You will be part of the thinking and innovation to overcome them,” Tinubu said, reaffirming his belief that the country would prevail under committed leadership.
The President paid tribute to the outgoing IGP, Egbetokun, who attended the ceremony with his spouse, commending his service in maintaining law and order.
“To the outgoing Inspector-General, we are a grateful nation. Nigeria appreciates your contribution to maintaining law and order,” he said, urging him to remain available to offer counsel to his successor. “You have not succeeded without a good successor. His success will also be part of your legacy.”
Tinubu called on all security stakeholders to work collectively to safeguard lives and property during what he described as a critical period for the nation.
Dignitaries at the event included the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu; the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila; the Governor of Delta State, Sheriff Oborevwori; and other senior government officials, alongside family members of the Acting IGP.
