Police chief orders updated threat assessments within 72 hours, warns officers against compromising polls
The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, on Wednesday directed police commands across the country to sharpen security operations, uphold neutrality in the build-up to elections and stamp out misconduct within the ranks.
Disu gave the directives at the monthly strategic briefing with senior officers of the Nigeria Police Force, held at the Goodluck Ebele Jonathan Peacekeeping Centre, Force Headquarters, Abuja. According to the Force, the meeting reviewed operational performance, emerging security threats, election preparedness and personnel welfare.
The IGP commended officers for their courage and professionalism, citing results recorded since the last conference. Police arrested 218 suspects linked to banditry and terrorism, 85 suspected armed robbers, 129 suspects for murder and culpable homicide, 59 suspected kidnappers and 120 suspected cultists.
Officers also rescued 95 kidnap victims and recovered 306 assorted firearms, 630 rounds of ammunition and 116 stolen vehicles.
To strengthen security in affected communities, Disu directed Commissioners of Police in the affected commands to submit updated threat assessments and operational requirements within 72 hours.
He tasked the Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of Operations with coordinating the deployment of additional personnel, mobility and air support to priority areas. Commands were also told to sustain intelligence-led operations and deepen engagement with traditional rulers, community leaders and other local stakeholders.
On the polls, the IGP reaffirmed the Force’s non-partisanship and its commitment to equal protection for all electoral participants. He directed closer coordination with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and other security agencies, stressing that personnel must remain impartial and professional.
He warned that any officer found compromising the electoral process or interfering with voters’ rights would face disciplinary action.
Disu also charged senior officers to enforce discipline and ensure that corruption, extortion, abuse of authority and unlawful use of force are not tolerated. Commands were directed to set up accessible, publicised complaints-response mechanisms with clear timelines for addressing misconduct, and to maintain transparent engagement with journalists so that misinformation is countered promptly.
On welfare, the IGP ordered the clearance of outstanding death benefits and entitlements owed to families of fallen officers. He stressed the need to support personnel’s physical and psychological wellbeing and to address welfare concerns that affect their ability to perform their duties.
The IGP reaffirmed the Force’s commitment to strengthening national security and providing a safe environment for free, fair and credible elections. He urged senior officers to strengthen supervision and deliver measurable results in protecting lives and property and safeguarding the electoral process.
The details were contained in a statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, on Nov. 11, 2026.
