By Micah Jonah, February 24, 2026
In a major shake-up of Nigeria’s police leadership, President Bola Tinubu has removed Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun from office, SaharaReporters has confirmed.
Egbetokun will be succeeded by Tunji Disu, the Assistant Inspector General of Police overseeing the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) Annex in Alagbon, Lagos. Senior police officials and sources within the Police Service Commission confirmed the development on Tuesday.
A source familiar with the matter told SaharaReporters, “Egbetokun was at the Presidential Villa yesterday and was told to prepare his handover notes. He will be handing over to Tunji Disu.”
The removal follows a tenure marked by multiple controversies, including allegations of favoritism, nepotism, and misuse of public funds. Civil society groups and critics had repeatedly raised concerns over Egbetokun’s extended stay in office beyond the mandatory retirement age of 60 or 35 years of service.
Reports also highlighted questionable promotions within the police hierarchy, including rapid advancements for Bukola Yemisi Kuti, a Principal Staff Officer linked to Egbetokun. Allegations emerged that ₦100 million from Anambra State’s security vote was traced to the account of Egbetokun’s son, Victor, sparking public outrage.
During his tenure, Egbetokun initiated legal action against journalists and activists reporting on these issues, including Omoyele Sowore and SaharaReporters, prompting debates over press freedom and transparency.
The development has reportedly been met with jubilation among police officers, while sources say First Lady Remi Tinubu had initially advocated for Egbetokun to remain in office.
Tunji Disu’s appointment comes at a critical time as the police service seeks to restore public confidence, strengthen institutional discipline.
