IGP Disu meets civil society leaders, promises strengthened oversight, police reforms

The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has pledged to reinforce accountability mechanisms within the Nigeria Police Force following a high-level engagement with leading civil society organisations at the Force Headquarters in Abuja.

The meeting, held on April 9, 2026, brought together prominent figures from the legal, human rights, governance, and security reform sectors.

The delegation was led by renowned human rights lawyer, Femi Falana (SAN), and included representatives of several advocacy groups and reform-focused institutions.

Among those present were Mr. Adesina Oke of the National Association of Democratic Lawyers (NADL); Barr. Okeke Chinwike of the African Law Foundation (AFRILAW); Ms. Barbara S. Magaji of Amnesty International; Mr. Anietie Ewang of Human Rights Watch (HRW); Mr. Samson Itodo, Executive Director of Yiaga Africa; Ms. Bathsheba Taglia of CISLAC/Transparency International Nigeria; Mrs. Kemi Okenyodo, Executive Director of Partners West Africa-Nigeria (PWAN); and Dr. Itia Otabor of the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy & Development (Centre LSD).

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In his remarks, Falana congratulated IGP Disu on his appointment and commended his stated vision of policing as a mission centered on protecting human rights. He, however, stressed the need for strict compliance with the provisions of the Nigeria Police Act 2020.

Falana specifically highlighted sections of the Act relating to mandatory notification of family members upon arrest, suspects’ right to legal representation, and the prohibition of arrests in purely civil disputes. He called for stronger internal accountability systems to ensure that officers who violate constitutional safeguards are held responsible.

The senior advocate noted that restoring public confidence in law enforcement requires consistent adherence to legal standards and transparent handling of complaints against police personnel.

In response, IGP Disu expressed appreciation for the constructive engagement by civil society groups, describing their participation as vital to strengthening democratic policing.

He reaffirmed his commitment to people-centered policing, emphasizing that effective law enforcement must address both serious criminal activities and everyday concerns affecting ordinary citizens.

According to the IGP, ongoing reforms within the Force include the review and update of training manuals to align with human rights standards, improved welfare packages for officers, and firm directives prohibiting police involvement in civil matters.

He also pledged to enhance transparency by strengthening the Police Complaint Response Unit and the Monitoring Unit to ensure prompt investigation and resolution of allegations of misconduct.

The police chief maintained that accountability and professionalism remain central pillars of his administration, expressing confidence that sustainable reform is achievable through collaboration with stakeholders.

The meeting concluded with mutual assurances of continued dialogue between the Nigeria Police Force and civil society organisations to advance transparency, protect human rights, and improve service delivery nationwide.

The statement was signed by the Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Okon Placid, at the Force Headquarters, Abuja.