Disu Vows Neutral Policing Ahead of 2027 General Elections

Olatunji Disu has pledged that the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) will remain neutral and professional during the 2027 general elections, warning that officers who compromise electoral integrity will face prosecution.

President Bola Tinubu swore in Disu as the 23rd inspector-general of police at the State House in Abuja on Wednesday, shortly before the federal executive council meeting. He takes over from Kayode Egbetokun, who resigned in February, citing pressing family considerations.

Speaking at his inaugural conference with senior police officers, Disu stressed that the credibility of the 2027 polls would depend significantly on the conduct of the police as the lead agency responsible for election security.

“As we approach the 2027 general elections, our responsibility to the nation becomes both heightened and non-negotiable,” he said. “The police must be firm in enforcing the law, impartial in its decisions, professional in its conduct, and strictly neutral in all electoral engagements.”

He warned that there would be zero tolerance for partisanship, misconduct, or abuse of authority within the ranks. According to him, any officer found to have violated electoral laws or acted outside approved rules of engagement would face swift disciplinary measures, including prosecution where necessary.

“There will be no exceptions and no excuses,” Disu stated, emphasizing accountability across all levels of the force.

Security, Reform, and Public Trust

The new police chief assured Nigerians that the NPF would secure the electoral process before, during, and after voting. He said officers would protect democratic institutions, electoral officials, voters, and critical infrastructure to ensure citizens can exercise their civic rights without fear or intimidation.

Disu also noted that crowd control and public order operations during the elections would be conducted with restraint and respect for human rights. Any use of force, he added, must be lawful, proportionate, and accountable.

While promising collaboration with the armed forces and other security and intelligence agencies, Disu maintained that the police would retain clear leadership in election security operations.

Beyond electoral matters, he reiterated his commitment to internal reforms aimed at restoring public confidence in the force. He declared that corruption, extortion, unlawful arrests, and abuse of power would not be tolerated under his leadership.

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He said oversight units within the police, including the provost and complaints response structures, would be empowered to investigate misconduct independently and decisively. “No officer is above the law,” Disu affirmed, underscoring his administration’s focus on discipline and institutional integrity.