The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has issued a sweeping directive to Commissioners of Police (CPs) across the country, mandating an immediate end to extortion, illegal checkpoints, harassment of citizens, and other forms of misconduct within the Force.
In a strongly worded signal circulated to top police commanders and seen by The Nation, the police chief described the restoration of public trust in the Nigeria Police Force as a critical operational priority.
Disu acknowledged the widespread mistrust Nigerians have toward the police, calling it “painful” and unacceptable. He warned that citizens now fear encounters with officers as much as they fear criminals — a perception he vowed to change under his leadership.
The directive marks the beginning of what the IGP described as a determined push to restore discipline and legitimacy within the Force. It explicitly bans the routine collection of money from motorists, the setting up of unauthorised checkpoints, and the practice of arresting citizens to coerce ATM withdrawals.
He also condemned the deployment of officers for private duties in homes and businesses, labelling it an abuse of authority and a violation of presidential directives on VIP protection. Officers were further instructed to comply strictly with dress codes, maintain proper grooming, and adhere to uniform standards.
The police boss stressed that harassment of citizens in any form would no longer be tolerated, reminding officers that the public remains the core reason for the Force’s existence. At the same time, he assured personnel that they would be protected from intimidation or disrespect by members of the public, emphasizing the need to uphold the dignity of the uniform.
Holding leadership accountable, Disu warned that CPs would be directly responsible for misconduct within their commands. He ordered visible improvements in discipline within seven days, cautioning that failure to comply could result in formal queries or transfers.
To enforce compliance, the directive introduces new oversight mechanisms, including independent monitoring of field operations and public complaint channels linked directly to Force Headquarters.
In addition, a Citizens Commendation System will be launched to reward professionalism, with monthly recognitions based on public nominations.
Describing the move as a turning point, the IGP noted that Nigerians are tired of empty promises and now demand real change. He ordered all commanders to brief their personnel within 72 hours and confirm compliance in writing, declaring that the process of reform within the Force has begun in earnest.