In a firm directive aimed at restoring public trust in the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Olatunji Disu has warned Commissioners of Police (CPs) nationwide against corruption, extortion, unlawful detention of suspects, abuse of authority, and other forms of misconduct.

IGP Disu emphasised that such practices would not be tolerated under his leadership.

Speaking at the Inspector-General of Police Meeting with Police Strategic Managers, held in Abuja, Disu positioned the CPs as key custodians of public confidence.

He stressed that effective policing begins with disciplined, accountable leadership at the command level.

“Effective policing starts with effective leadership. As commissioners of police and strategic commanders, you are custodians of public confidence in your commands. Leadership is not measured by the authority you hold, but by the standards you set, the confidence you inspire and the results you deliver,” the IGP stated.

Disu urged the senior officers to maintain operational readiness while enforcing high standards of professionalism, discipline, and respect for citizens’ rights.

He explicitly warned that “corruption, extortion, abuse of authority, unlawful detention and other unethical conduct undermine the efforts of the Nigeria Police Force to deliver effective service.”

The remarks come amid longstanding public criticisms of the NPF, including allegations of bribery at checkpoints, prolonged detention without trial often linked to “cell arrest” or revenue generation, and high-profile cases of power abuse.

By directly addressing the issues at a strategic managers’ meeting, Disu signals an internal push for reform from the top.

Beyond internal discipline, the IGP directed CPs to strengthen community policing initiatives.

He called for genuine engagement with traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth and women groups, and other local stakeholders, describing these partnerships as foundational to crime prevention rather than peripheral programs.

“Community policing is not a side programme; it is the foundation on which effective policing rests. Our engagement with the communities we serve must be genuine, because their partnership is central to crime prevention,” he said.

Disu also highlighted recent operational successes. Since June 9, 2026, anti-crime operations across the federation have led to the arrest of 1,198 suspects, including 151 for murder and culpable homicide, 117 for armed robbery, 151 for kidnapping, 104 suspected cultists, and 169 for unlawful possession of firearms.

Authorities rescued 166 kidnap victims, recovered 166 assorted firearms, 1,475 rounds of ammunition, and 47 stolen vehicles.

The meeting followed a decoration ceremony where Disu adorned 13 newly promoted Assistant Inspectors-General (AIGs) and 17 new Commissioners of Police.

Addressing the officers, he reiterated expectations of “uncompromising integrity” and zero tolerance for misconduct.

“I expect you to lead with uncompromising integrity and reject misconduct, abuse of office and corruption. At the same time, lead with humanity and remember that the officers under your command are people who deserve guidance, support and responsible leadership,” the IGP told the newly elevated ranks.