Disu gave the directive on Tuesday during a strategic meeting with senior officers from the rank of Commissioners and above.

He directed the Commissioners of Police to conduct a comprehensive, transparent and properly documented stocktaking exercise, and submit the report to the force headquarters.

He said the move was to strengthen accountability and prevent misuse of operational assets.

“I hereby direct all Commissioners of Police to immediately undertake a comprehensive audit of arms and ammunition within their respective Commands. This exercise must be thorough, transparent, and properly documented, with detailed reports forwarded to the Force Headquarters within the stipulated time frame.

His words: “The objective is clear: to strengthen accountability, identify existing gaps, and provide an accurate assessment of our operational needs. 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.”

Speaking on the recent extra-judicial killing which occurred in Delta State, the IGP described the incident as unlawful and a violation of professional standards which would no longer be tolerated under his leadership.

According to him, “that act was wrong. It was unlawful. It violated the sanctity of human life and the professional standards of this Force,

He disclosed that the officer involved and members of his team had been dismissed, while the case file had been forwarded to the Directorate of Public Prosecutions for criminal prosecution.

“This matter will not be swept aside. Accountability will be pursued to its full and logical conclusion,” he stated.

The IGP also directed Commissioners of Police to convene regular town hall meetings with key stakeholders such as traditional rulers, religious leaders, market associations, youth and women groups, and transport unions.

According to him, “these are not ceremonial events. Commissioners must sit with traditional rulers, religious leaders, market associations, youth organizations, listening, sharing women’s groups, and transport unions information, and building genuine partnerships.”

As part of efforts to boost accessibility, the IGP ordered that Commissioners make their contact details available to community leaders within their states.

According to him, “when a community leader needs to reach their Commissioner of Police, that line must be open. That is what community policing looks like in practice.”

While urging  citizens to volunteer information to security agencies, he said,  “if you see something, say something. We are listening, and we will act.”

Disu also announced the restructuring of the police anti-crime architecture with the creation of a new formation, the Violent Crime Response Unit to replace the Special Weapons and Tactics units.

According to the IG, the VCRU represents a fundamental shift in tackling serious crimes, with officers undergoing specialised training in tactical operations, human rights compliance, intelligence analysis, and rules of engagement.

According to him, this is not a rebranding exercise. The VCRU represents a fundamental shift in how we approach serious crime in Nigeria.

‎‎He explained that officers assigned to the unit have undergone specialised training in tactical operations, human rights compliance and intelligence analysis.

‎The IGP further revealed that the unit would operate strictly on credible intelligence and be subject to civilian oversight and structured review mechanisms.

‎Each Commissioner of Police, he said, would be directly responsible for the conduct and performance of the VCRU in their respective states.

‎‎The IGP also directed Commissioners to intensify community policing efforts through regular town hall engagements with stakeholders, including traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth groups and market associations.

‎‎He ordered that Commissioners make their contact details available to community leaders to enhance accessibility and trust.

‎According to him security is a collective enterprise.

He said when citizens trusted the police, they shared information—and that information saved lives.

‎Disu disclosed that the Force had embarked on comprehensive retraining of personnel, with emphasis on human rights, lawful use of force and professional conduct.

‎‎He reiterated that the Police Complaints Response Unit, CRU, remained operational 24/7, encouraging citizens to report misconduct.

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A swift clarification by police authorities, however, put the matter in proper perspective, explaining that the directive was aimed at curbing the proliferation of tactical teams rather than abolishing established units.

The policy is one of several reforms introduced since his assumption of office as the 23rd Inspector-General of Police. It reflects a deliberate effort to address longstanding structural and operational concerns within the Force.

For years, Nigerians have witnessed the unchecked creation of multiple tactical teams, often with limited measurable impact on crime reduction. In many instances, these units have been linked to routine stop-and-search operations that have attracted public criticism over allegations of extortion, misconduct, and abuse of power.

The new directive, which significantly limits the number of tactical teams at state and area command levels, is expected to redirect personnel and logistical resources to divisional police units – the primary interface for community policing. Over time, these divisions have been weakened as officers and resources were reassigned to newly created tactical formations.

Given that a substantial proportion of crimes occur within local jurisdictions, strengthening divisional policing aligns with the broader objective of grassroots security. Reassigning personnel to these units is expected to improve responsiveness, enhance visibility, and deepen community engagement.

In addition, reducing the number of tactical teams is likely to improve oversight and discipline. A more streamlined structure allows for clearer mandates, better supervision, and increased accountability among officers. This is particularly critical in addressing past incidents involving misconduct that fall short of modern policing standards.

The reform also signals responsiveness to public concerns about policing practices. By restructuring units previously associated with inefficiencies or abuse, the initiative presents an opportunity to rebuild public trust and reinforce adherence to human rights standards.

Furthermore, rationalising tactical operations will help eliminate role duplication, improve coordination, and ensure more efficient deployment of resources across commands.

Overall, the policy represents a strategic shift towards a more accountable, community-focused policing model. Its success, however, will depend on consistent implementation, sustained oversight, and measurable improvements in service delivery at the divisional level.

*Femi Malik is the Head, Public Affairs Unit, Lagos Rapid Response Squad, RRS.

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El-Rufai is demanding a N1 billion in damages against ICPC (1st respondent) and others.

They include the Chief Magistrate at the Magistrate’s Court of the FCT, Abuja; Inspector-General (I-G) of Police and the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), named as 2nd to 4th respondents respectively.

The matter, which was before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court in Abuja, could not proceed shortly after it was called.

Upon resumed hearing, only Ubong Akpan, the counsel, who appeared for the ex-govenor, was in court, as there was no representation for the respondents.

Akpan, therefore, informed the court that though the matter was scheduled for mention, they had been unable to serve the respondents.

He sought an adjournment to enable them do the needful and Justice Abdulmalik fixed March 11 for further mention.

El-Rufai, through his team of lawyers led by Oluwole Iyamu, SAN, is praying the court to declare that the search warrant issued on February 4 by the Chief Magistrate, Magistrate’s Court of the FCT (2nd respondent), authorising the search and seizure at his residence was invalid, null and void.

He is asking the court to declare that the search warrant is “null and void for lack of particularity, material drafting errors, ambiguity in execution parameters, overbreadth, and absence of probable cause thereby constituting an unlawful and unreasonable search in violation of Section 37 of the Constitution.”

The former governor, in the originating motion on notice marked: FHC/ABJ/CS/345/2026, dated and filed February 20 by Iyamu, sought seven reliefs.

He prayed the court to declare that the invasion and search of his residence at House 12, Mambilla Street, Aso Drive, Abuja, on February 19 at about 2pm by the ICPC and I-G, a gross violation of the applicant’s fundamental rights.

He said that it was violation to dignity of the human person, personal liberty, fair hearing, and privacy under Sections 34, 35, 36, and 37 of the Constitution.

He urged the court to declare that “any evidence obtained pursuant to the aforesaid invalid warrant and unlawful search is inadmissible in any proceedings against the applicant, as it was procured in breach of constitutional safeguards.”

El-Rufai, therefore, sought an order of injunction restraining the respondents and their agents from further relying on, using, or tendering any evidence or items seized during the unlawful search in any investigation, prosecution, or proceedings involving him.

He sought an order directing the 1st and 3rd respondents (ICPC and I-G) to forthwith return all items seized from the applicant’s premises during the unlawful search, together with a detailed inventory thereof.

He also sought an order awarding the sum of N1 billion as general, exemplary, and aggravated damages.

El-Rufai did the breakdown of the N1 billion in damages to include “a N300 million as compensatory damages for psychological trauma, emotional distress, and loss of personal security;

“N400 million as exemplary damages to deter future misconduct by law enforcement agencies and vindicate the applicant’s rights.

“N300 million as aggravated damages for the malicious, high-handed and oppressive nature of the respondents’ actions, including the use of a patently defective warrant procured through misleading representations.”

He equally sought a N100 million as cost of filing the suit, including legal fees and associated expenses.

In his grounds of argument, the senior lawyer argued that the search warrant was fundamentally defective, lacking specificity in the description of items to be seized, containing material typographical errors, ambiguous execution terms, overbroad directives, and no verifiable probable cause.

He said that was in contravention of Sections 143-148 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA), 2015; Section 36 of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences (ICPC) Act, 2000, and constitutional protections against arbitrary intrusions.

Specifically, Iyamu argued that Section 143 of the ACJA required that an application for a search warrant be supported by information in writing and on oath, setting forth reasonable grounds for suspicion, which was absent here as evidenced by the incomplete initiating clause.

He said Section 144 mandated particular descriptions of the place to be searched and the items sought, to prevent general warrants.

He, however, argued that the instant warrant vaguely referred to “the thing aforesaid” without any detail.

Iyamu stated that the execution of the invalid warrant on February 19 resulted in an unlawful invasion of his client’s premises, constituting violations of the rights to dignity (Section 34), personal liberty (Section 35), fair hearing (Section 36), and privacy (Section 37) of the Constitution.

He further argued that the search was conducted without legal justification and in a manner that inflicted humiliation and distress.

Source: NAN

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The police boss made the charge on Friday in a statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi.

He said managing the detention and arraignment of the suspects, the NPF had rigorously adhered to legal provisions to ensure fairness and accountability under the rule of law.

He further explained that under the Nigerian law, individuals who had reached the age of criminal responsibility were answerable for their actions, regardless of their age.

Egbetokun said the Nigeria Police Force was committed to aligning with best practices, upholding both the rule of law and respect for human dignity.

The statement reads in full:

“The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has recently arraigned 76 individuals in court on charges including terrorism, arson, and treasonable felony. These serious allegations encompass offenses such as the destruction of public property and threats to national security. In managing the detention and arraignment of these suspects, the NPF has rigorously adhered to legal provisions to ensure fairness and accountability under the rule of law.

“The suspects were initially presented in court, where they were formally charged, and a remand order was issued by the court. Throughout this process, the Police have worked to balance justice with compassion, ensuring that each suspect’s basic rights and privileges are respected, including access to medical care and other necessary provisions.

“Today, an unexpected incident in court saw six of the suspects suddenly rush out and faint, drawing media attention in a deliberate and scripted manner to draw negative attention. Medical aid was promptly provided to these individuals, demonstrating the Police Force’s commitment to the welfare of those in its custody, irrespective of the allegations they face.

“While committed to upholding justice, the Nigeria Police Force remains sensitive to the rights of all individuals, including young persons. Under Nigerian law, individuals who have reached the age of criminal responsibility are answerable for their actions, regardless of their age.

“This principle aligns with global practices, where accountability is upheld for young individuals who commit serious offenses. As seen in other jurisdictions, including the United Kingdom, age does not exempt individuals from facing legal consequences. However, each case is approached with empathy and in accordance with human rights standards.

“The NPF acknowledges public interest in this case and assures the public that our officers will maintain professionalism throughout the legal process. The public is encouraged to view this case without undue bias, as the Force remains focused on a transparent pursuit of justice. The Nigeria Police Force is committed to aligning with best practices, upholding both the rule of law and respect for human dignity.”

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The directive has already been carried out by the Rivers State Commissioner of Police, Bala Mustapha, in compliance with Egbetokun’s directive, according to a statement issued by the state’s Police Public Relations Officer, Grace Iringe-Koko.

The unsealing of the local government areas was carried out barely few hours after the swearing in of newly-elected local government chairman by Governor Siminalayi Fubara.

Recall that the sealing of the local government secretariat headquarters was carried out in July to stem the crisis that greeted the tenure extension of former local government area chairmen.

In the statement issued, the police spokesperson declared that the action was a manifestation of the neutrality of the Nigeria Police Force.

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The police spokesperson said that police operatives would only be redeployed in the event of any crisis or breakdown of law and order.

The statement reads: “In light of recent political developments in Rivers State, the newly deployed Commissioner of Police, CP Bala Mustapha, conveys the directives of the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, for the immediate withdrawal of all police personnel previously stationed to secure the Local Government Secretariats.

“This decision reaffirms the Nigeria Police Force’s stance on neutrality and its dedication to ensuring the uninterrupted operation of democratic institutions.

“Police personnel will only be redeployed in the event of any crisis or breakdown of law and order. In such cases, emergency measures will be swiftly implemented to restore normalcy.

“The Rivers State Police Command assures the public of its commitment to maintaining peace and order throughout the state and will continue to act professionally. We urge residents and stakeholders to remain calm and law-abiding as the situation unfolds.”

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This is as he emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and order during the protests scheduled for August 1.

He therefore called on Nigerians to cooperate with the Police to ensure that any forthcoming protests were peaceful and orderly.

The police chief made the remarks on Monday when he spoke on the planned nationwide protest.

In a statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, Egbetokun is quoted as having said economic hardship was not peculiar to Nigeria, but a global phenomenon.

“It is not only in Nigeria that there is hardship. It is a global meltdown. Is the government doing anything about it? Yes! This is what a responsive government will do,” stated the IGP.

He stressed that the government had been actively working to mitigate the impact and provide relief to the citizens.

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Reflecting on the 2020 EndSARS protest, the IGP remarked, “Where police stations were burnt down, criminals took over. Arms looted were in the wrong hands, and armed robbers took over. Women could no longer walk freely once it is 7p.m.”

He warned that the destruction of police infrastructure led to a breakdown of law and order, leaving communities vulnerable to criminal activities.

“There are enough lessons to learn from previous violent protests in Nigeria,” the IGP continued, urging citizens to remember the chaos and suffering that followed such events.

“Serious dangers come with unchecked demonstrations,” he added, highlighting the potential for loss of lives, property damage, and widespread fear among the populace.

The IGP acknowledged the right to protest, stating, “The right to protest is a right to peaceful protest.”

He called on all Nigerians to exercise the right responsibly and to avoid actions that could escalate into violence.

Peaceful protests, he emphasized, were a powerful tool for expressing grievances and driving change without endangering lives and properties.

In conclusion, the IGP reaffirmed the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to protecting the rights of citizens while maintaining law and order.

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During the crisis, supporters of two political factions clashed over the tenure of local government council chairmen, which led to the tragic deaths of a police officer, Inspector David Mgbada, and Samuel Nwigwe, a vigilante member at Eberi-Omuma in Omuma local government area.

In response to these heinous acts, the IGP has directed the Commissioner of Police in Rivers State, CP Olatunji Disu, to heighten security measures across the state and institute thorough investigations into the killing of the police officer and the vigilante operative, as well as the general violence which erupted in the state.

The IGP has specifically deployed operatives of the Force Intelligence Response Team, IRT, to assist the Rivers State Command in apprehending the killers of the police officer and the vigilante member.

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The IGP warned “individuals and groups of people who have a penchant for senseless attacks and mindless killings of police officers and other security operatives across the country to desist forthwith as the fullest force of the law will be meted on them.”

The CP has also been directed to focus on increased patrols, strategic deployment of officers, and enhanced intelligence operations to prevent further violence and ensure the safety of all residents.

The IGP extends heartfelt condolences to the families, friends, and colleagues of the deceased police officer and the vigilante member noting that their dedication and sacrifice in the line of duty will not be taken for granted.

The Inspector General of Police called on all residents and political stakeholders in the state to exercise restraint and seek peaceful means of resolving differences.

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The suspects were taken from Ilofa to Ilorin, the Kwara State capital on Thursday.

In a statement signed by its official, Mr. Taiwo Adeleye,  National Human  Rights Commission, NHRC, said the arrest of the suspects was an important step towards securing justice for the families of Mr Rotimi Williams whose wife accused health officials at a private hospital of stealing the placenta of her new born baby.

The NHRC,a coalition of 130 civil society groups spread across Nigeria on Thursday expressed delight at the arrest of the suspects by the police.

The group said it was aware of plots by some powerful individuals to clog the wheel of justice but was delighted that the IGP had brought hope to the despairing family.

It called for full investigation that would lead to the arrest and prosecution of all culprits.

Few days ago, Mrs Williams accused the management of  Cottage Hospital, Ilofa, Kwara State, of failing to account for the placenta of her new born baby.

In complaints lodged with the NHRC, Mrs Williams said a nurse, Mrs Alabi  took the delivery, one nurse Adeloye cleaned up the baby while one Mrs Toyin, a  ward attendant claimed she mistakenly threw away the placenta.

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“In Nigerian agelong tradition, the placenta is linked to the spiritual and physical wellbeing of a new born baby. There is a customary and agelong way of burying placenta of which every medical staff is aware. The disappearance of a baby’s placenta is a source of eternal trauma for the parents and a prelude to impugn the future of the child based on timeless tradition and beliefs,” the NHRC said.

The coalition said the placenta could be stolen for rituals, adding that stealing a placenta is like killing the child or using the child for ritual by other means.

The group said it would follow-up the case “day and night” to ensure justice is done.

The NHRC said Mrs Toyin brought out the mother’s bags from the labour room but failed to take the placenta along.

The rights group said one Mrs Ayoni Awolusi in the course of the delivery, claimed she was to be on duty but was absent.

The medical personnel expected to be on duty was Dr. Ajibola.

NHRC said Mrs Williams put to bed around 7 p.m. on Sunday May 12 but discovered the missing placenta very early on Monday 13th, May.

The group called on the IG to intensify the probe and ensure everyone connected with the gory episode was brought to justice.

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This was made known in a statement issued by the spokesperson for the police command in Kogi, SP Williams Ovye-Aya, on Thursday in Lokoja.

Ovye-Aya said that the police were determined to rescue the remaining students.

The students of Confluence University of Science and Technology, CUSTECH, were on May 9 abducted by suspected bandits, who invaded the institution while the students were reading for their first semester examination.

Although 21 students havr been rescued, the remaining had yet to be rescued.

“In furtherance to the ongoing Rescue Operation and to sustain the onslaught, the IGP deployed the Air Component of Police Security Apparatus well trained for Aerial Surveillance, Monitoring Team as well as Technical Intelligence Unit (TIU) to Kogi.

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“The reinforcement is in response to IGP’s unwavering passion about protecting lives and property of all Nigerians especially the safety of our children in various schools in the country.

“The diligence and indomitable spirit of all the combined team had led to the rescue of additional seven victims, bringing the total to 21.

“It is not over until it is over, so we won’t rest on our Oars as all hands will be on deck to ensure all the students are safely rescued and perpetrators brought to deserved justice,’’ he said.

He added: “Already, the Kogi government as well as the university community are satisfied with the rescue operations so far and commended the indubitable, unassailable level of cooperation, collaboration and synergy amongst the security agencies, local vigilantes and hunters in the state.”

He said that the state Commissioner of Police, Mr Bethrand Onuoha, thanked the I-G for the deployment of the air component, the security personnel, and vigilantes/hunters for their show of patriotism and altruism to the people of Kogi.

“The CP also appreciates the vibrant pressmen in the state for their show of concern and empathy in the wake of the students’ abduction,” he said.

‘’The CP continues to solicit the cooperation, collaboration and solidarity of the good people of Kogi with the police and other security agencies to ensure adequate security of lives and property of law-abiding residents of the state,’’ he said.

Source: NAN

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