IGP Olatunji Disu Denies Nationwide Police Unit Disbandment

Inspector General of Police Olatunji Disu addressed reports claiming the disbandment of all police units and squads across Nigeria, labeling them as misleading. In a statement from police spokesperson Anthony Placid, Disu clarified that the directive is to reduce tactical teams at the zonal command level to a maximum of five and at the area command division level to a maximum of three.

This decision aims to avoid the proliferation and duplication of police units, which have faced public backlash due to their actions. Disu emphasized the importance of maintaining effective crime-fighting strategies while addressing issues related to the excessive number of tactical teams that drain police resources and manpower.

He also noted that the reduction would help alleviate complaints against police personnel and enhance community relations. The IGP's directive does not affect state government-created outfits, such as the Lagos Rapid Response Squad and Oyo's Special Response Team.