The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Disu, has clarified that reports of his directive to disband all police units and squads at state commands are misrepresented.

In a statement, the Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Okon Placid, said the IGP is aware of public concerns about police tactical teams’ operations and has directed the reduction of teams at Zonal and State Command levels to a maximum of five, and Area Command and Divisional levels to a maximum of three.

Placid said the IGP aims to address issues of manpower drain, poor supervision, and excesses by tactical teams, and to enhance accountability and a people-friendly Force.

The directive excludes state government-created outfits like Lagos’ Rapid Response Squad and similar units.

The move is expected to free personnel for Police Stations and reduce complaints about tactical team excesses.
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‎According to the Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Placid, the reports are false and misrepresent the IGP’s directive.
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‎What the IGP actually ordered is a nationwide restructuring of tactical teams to curb excesses and improve efficiency.
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‎The police said the move became necessary due to the growing number of tactical units across commands, which has led to manpower shortages at police stations and increased complaints from the public.
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‎Under the new directive, tactical teams are to be reduced to five at state and zonal levels, and three at area and divisional levels.
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‎Commanders have been given the discretion to merge or disband units to meet the new structure.
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‎The statement also clarified that state-backed outfits like Lagos Rapid Response Squad and similar units are not affected.
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‎Placid said the reform is part of efforts by the IGP to build a more accountable and people-friendly police force while strengthening grassroots policing.