IGP rebuts false disbandment claims, orders tactical unit overhaul
The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Disu, has dismissed reports in sections of the online media alleging that he ordered the disbandment of all police tactical units and squads across state commands nationwide.
In a statement, the IGP described the reports as a misrepresentation of his directive, clarifying that he did not order a wholesale dissolution of tactical units but instead mandated a reduction in their number.
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*IGP Disu
Etim Ekpimah
The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Disu, has dismissed reports in sections of the online media alleging that he ordered the disbandment of all police tactical units and squads across state commands nationwide.
In a statement, the IGP described the reports as a misrepresentation of his directive, clarifying that he did not order a wholesale dissolution of tactical units but instead mandated a reduction in their number.
Widely regarded for his extensive grassroots experience and broad network across Nigerian society, Disu acknowledged public concerns over the operations of police tactical teams. He also raised concerns about the proliferation of such units by Commissioners of Police and heads of formations, noting that this expansion has contributed to operational challenges and public backlash.
While recognising the critical role tactical teams play in crime-fighting, the IGP stressed that their unchecked growth has depleted manpower at police divisions and posts. He added that, in some instances, poorly supervised teams have undermined the integrity of the Force.
To address these issues, the IGP directed that tactical teams at zonal and state command levels be reduced to a maximum of five, while those at area command and divisional levels should not exceed three. He explained that this could be achieved by merging or disbanding units, at the discretion of the heads of formations.
The directive does not, however, apply to state government-established outfits such as Lagos State’s Rapid Response Squad, Oyo State’s Special Response Squad (SRS), and Bayelsa State’s Operation DOO-AKPOR, among others.
According to the IGP, the measure is expected to redeploy more personnel to police stations, thereby strengthening frontline policing and addressing public complaints about the excesses of tactical teams.
He reaffirmed his commitment to accountability and a citizen-focused police force, stating that the initiative is designed to strengthen oversight, boost operational efficiency, and rebuild public trust in the Nigeria Police Force.
The statement was signed by the Force Public Relations Officer, Anthony Okon Placid, at the Force Headquarters in Abuja on 22 March 2026.
