A directive from the Inspector General of Police has placed all state commands under fresh scrutiny.
Nigeria’s policing system is now facing a major internal review as IGP Olatunji Disu orders a comprehensive audit of arms and ammunition.
According to the IGP, all Commissioners of Police have been instructed to carry out a detailed and transparent process. The findings are to be documented and submitted within a specific timeframe.
“This exercise must be thorough, transparent, and properly documented, with detailed reports forwarded to the Force Headquarters within the stipulated timeframe,” Disu said.
However, the directive goes beyond routine checks.
“Let me emphasize that this is not a routine administrative task, but a critical measure to enhance our readiness, prevent misuse, and ensure that all assets entrusted to the Force are properly accounted for and optimally deployed,” he added.
Meanwhile, Disu reminded officers of their leadership roles across different states. He stressed the importance of integrity and discipline in daily operations.
“Lead with integrity, lead with discipline, and lead with the people and this Force will be transformed,” he charged.
In addition, the IGP highlighted the need for stronger ties with communities. He noted that security cannot be achieved without public cooperation.
“We need the trust, the cooperation, and the active partnership of the Nigerian people and we are committed to earning it,” he stated.
Therefore, Commissioners have been directed to hold regular town hall meetings.
“I am therefore directing every Commissioner of Police to hold regular town hall engagements across their State Commands,” he said.
Moreover, accessibility has also been emphasized. Community leaders will now have direct access to Commissioners through shared contact details.
“I am also taking a step that I believe will send a strong signal of openness and accessibility,” Disu explained.
Meanwhile, ongoing reforms within the Force were also highlighted. Officers are being retrained with focus on human rights and professional conduct.
“The Police Complaints Response Unit the CRU – remains fully operational, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week,” he noted.
However, concerns about past misconduct still linger.
“We are working actively and with urgency – to rebuild and sustain public trust,” he said.
