IGP Disu Debunks Reports of Nationwide Dissolution of Police Tactical Units

The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Disu, has refuted reports circulating on several online platforms claiming he ordered the dissolution of all police units and squads across state commands.

In a statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Okon Placid, the report was described as a clear misrepresentation of the IGP’s directive.

According to the Force Headquarters, the IGP—known for his deep grassroots connections and understanding of public concerns—acknowledges the issues arising from the proliferation of tactical teams established by some Commissioners of Police and Heads of Formations. These multiple units, often poorly supervised, have generated manpower shortages in divisions and attracted public complaints over excesses.

While reaffirming the essential role of tactical teams in crime-fighting, the IGP noted that their unchecked multiplication undermines the integrity and operational effectiveness of the Force.

To correct these structural gaps, IGP Disu has directed a reduction and restructuring of tactical teams as follows:

Zonal and State Commands: Maximum of five tactical units

Area Commands and Divisions: Maximum of three tactical units

The restructuring may be achieved through merging or disbanding units at the discretion of Heads of Formations.

The clarification also emphasized that the directive does not affect state-established security outfits, including the Rapid Response Squad, Special Response Squad, and Operation DOO-AKPOR, among similar units across the country.

The move, the IGP said, is intended to release more personnel back to police stations, improve supervision of existing teams, and reduce complaints from the public—aligning with his earlier commitment to build a more accountable, people-friendly police force.

OYO NEWS