IGP Disu Refutes Reports of Total Squad Dissolution; Orders Strategic Thinning

IGP Disu Refutes Reports of Total Squad Dissolution, Orders Strategic Thinning of Tactical Units

ABUJA – The Nigeria Police Force has dismissed widespread reports claiming a wholesale disbandment of its tactical units, with Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Disu clarifying that the Force is instead undertaking a targeted restructuring aimed at improving discipline and strengthening grassroots policing.

In a statement issued to the Press, the IGP explained that the reform is not a dissolution of elite squads but a deliberate “slimming down” designed to curb excesses and address personnel shortages at the divisional level. The move follows growing public concern over the conduct of certain tactical teams and their impact on the Force’s reputation.

Contrary to viral claims, the directive introduces a cap on the number of tactical units permitted across commands. Under the new structure, Zonal and State Commands are limited to a maximum of five tactical teams, while Area Commands and Divisions may operate no more than three. Command heads have been instructed to merge or disband surplus units to comply with the new policy.

IGP Disu

Police authorities emphasized that the restructuring does not affect state-backed security outfits such as the Rapid Response Squad in Lagos State, the Special Response Squad in Oyo State, or Operation DOO-AKPOR in Bayelsa State. These units will continue to function under their respective state frameworks.

The reform is widely seen as a response to longstanding criticisms over the proliferation of poorly supervised tactical teams, which the IGP noted had led to “excesses” and public backlash. By reducing their number, the Force aims to enhance oversight, improve accountability, and restore public trust.

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A key objective of the policy is to redeploy officers from specialized squads back to local police stations, where manpower shortages have weakened routine policing. Officials say this will bolster community-level security and improve responsiveness to everyday incidents.

Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Okon Placid, described the IGP as a “grassroots officer” committed to building a more people-oriented police service. Observers note that the restructuring signals a broader shift toward balancing specialized crime-fighting capabilities with the need for effective and disciplined local policing.

The latest directive underscores an ongoing effort by the police leadership to recalibrate operational priorities, ensuring that efficiency, accountability, and public confidence remain at the core of law enforcement in Nigeria.