President Bola Tinubu has sworn in Olatunji Disu as the 23rd Inspector-General of Police at the Council Chambers of the State House, Abuja.
The President also administered oaths of office to six commissioners of the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission, RMAFC and two commissioners of the Federal Civil Service Commission, FCSC.
The ceremony was held shortly before the meeting of the Executive Council of the Federation.
Speaking to State House Correspondents after his swearing-in, the new police chief declared that state policing has come to stay, stressing that the Nigeria Police Force is not threatened by the development.
“State police has come to stay, and the police should be able to do their own part in making it succeed. The police are not afraid. Our jobs are not being taken. It’s just an issue of partnership,” Disu said.
He disclosed that a committee was set up Wednesday morning to review the issue of state police from the perspective of the Nigeria Police, to ensure that the Force plays an active role in shaping the process.
On security concerns and potential protests amid global tensions, the Inspector-General of Police said the Force is adopting intelligence-led policing and proactive engagement to prevent breakdown of law and order.
“Our ears are to the ground… we are putting all necessary actions in place. You can see policemen on patrol, and most importantly, we are talking to groups to ensure that they do not take laws into their hands,” he stated.
Disu also pledged to prioritise the welfare of officers, describing policing as a difficult and dangerous profession.
Recalling that 140 policemen were lost in one year during his tenure as Commissioner of Police in the FCT, he stressed that proper motivation is essential for optimal performance.
“Our jobs are very difficult… Men sleep out. A lot of people don’t have time to go back to their families. So welfare is very, very vital,” he said.
He emphasised that under his leadership, the Force will remain people-focused.
“We are working for the people of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and the citizens of this country are our bosses,” he added.
(Editor: Terverr Tyav)
