The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Disu, has reaffirmed the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to accountability, discipline, and human rights compliance, while unveiling new operational reforms, including the establishment of a Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU).
The IGP made this known on Tuesday, 5th May 2026, during an emergency strategic conference with senior police leadership, including members of the Force Management Team, Assistant Inspectors-General of Police, and Commissioners of Police, held at the Force Headquarters, Abuja.
The meeting was convened to address critical national security concerns, reinforce internal accountability, and issue new operational directives to Commands and Formations across the country.
In his address, Disu stressed that the evolving security environment demands greater professionalism, discipline, and intelligence-led policing.
“The security challenges we face require a more responsive, accountable, and intelligence-driven policing approach at all levels of command,” he said.
The Inspector-General also addressed the recent extra-judicial killing incident in Effurun, Delta State, describing the act as unlawful and inconsistent with the values of the Nigeria Police Force.
He confirmed that officers involved in the incident have been dismissed from service, while the case has been forwarded for criminal prosecution.
“There is zero tolerance for misconduct within the Nigeria Police Force. No officer is above the law, and any breach of our professional standards will attract decisive sanctions,” the IGP warned.
Highlighting operational achievements for April 2026, Disu disclosed that intelligence-led operations nationwide led to the arrest of 28 suspected terrorists, 51 murder suspects, 62 armed robbery suspects, 85 kidnapping suspects, and 54 suspected cultists.
He added that 189 kidnapped victims were rescued within the period, while 140 firearms, 1,074 rounds of ammunition, and 37 stolen vehicles were recovered.
“These results reflect the effectiveness of our intelligence-led operations and the dedication of our officers in the field,” he said.
As part of ongoing reforms, the IGP announced the creation of the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU), a specialised tactical formation designed to enhance the Force’s capacity to respond to serious and violent crimes.
“The VCRU will operate strictly on intelligence-based deployment, supported by specialised training, human rights compliance, and strong accountability mechanisms,” he explained.
He added that Commissioners of Police will bear direct responsibility for overseeing the operations of the unit within their respective commands.
The IGP also directed all Commissioners of Police to strengthen community policing through regular engagement with stakeholders, including traditional rulers, religious leaders, and community-based organisations.
“Policing must remain community-driven. Commissioners are expected to deepen engagement and ensure open lines of communication with the people they serve,” he stated.
Reiterating the reform agenda of the Force, Disu said the Nigeria Police remains committed to institutional renewal, professionalism, and respect for human rights.
“Our ongoing reforms are anchored on accountability, discipline, and public trust. We will continue to strengthen internal mechanisms, including the Police Complaints Response Unit, to ensure misconduct is promptly addressed,” he said.
He assured Nigerians of the Force’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property while upholding the rule of law.
