Disu’s Rise Sparks Top-Level Shakeup: Frank Mba, 7 DIGs Likely to Retire

The resignation of the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun and the subsequent appointment of AIG Tunji Disu as acting IGP to replace him is expected to lead to a shakeup at the top level of the police force hierarchy.

Egbetokun stepped down, citing pressing family considerations, ending his four-year term in office that was set to end in June 2027 under the amended Police Act.

In a statement, the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, confirmed the receipt of Egbetokun’s resignation and expressed gratitude for his service to the nation.

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Until his elevation, Disu served as AIG in charge of the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) Annex in Alagbon, Lagos, and is widely recognised for his intelligence-led and community-focused policing.

A Tradition of Retirement at the Top

In Nigeria, it is customary for senior police officers to retire when a junior officer is appointed IGP. Though not legally binding, this tradition underscores the Force’s emphasis on hierarchy, seniority, and institutional stability. Following Disu’s appointment, eight Deputy Inspectors-General (DIGs) are expected to exit the Force:

1. Frank Mba

Mba began as an Inspector and rose steadily through the ranks, attaining AIG status in March 2023. A three-time National Police Spokesman, he also served with the United Nations Mission in Liberia (2006–2007), earning a UN Medal for his contributions.

2. Mohammed Gumel

Currently, DIG in charge of the Force Intelligence Department at Force Headquarters, Abuja, Gumel, is a staunch advocate of community policing and was named Best Community Policing Advocate of the Year in 2024.

3. Adebola Hamzat

Hamzat oversees the Department of Logistics and Supply, supervising procurement, works, housing, and technical services. He previously served as AIG of Zone 16 and Commissioner of Police in Oyo State.

4. Yahaya Abubakar

Abubakar heads the Department of Finance and Administration at Force Headquarters, managing budgeting, human resources, and administrative functions. He was promoted to this role by the Police Service Commission in 2024.

5. Basil Idegwu

Idegwu leads the Department of Research and Planning, shaping strategic policies and modernising policing standards. He holds a Ph.D. in Peace and Security Studies.

6. Bzigu Kwazhi

Kwazhi, DIG in charge of Operations, coordinates nationwide missions including riot control, joint security operations, and election security interventions. In 2025, he led major security operations in Plateau and Adamawa states.

7. Idris Abubakar

A police cadet since 1992, Abubakar holds a Ph.D. in Psychology and has held numerous senior leadership roles within the Force.

8. Adebowale Williams

Williams manages the Department of Information and Communication Technology, overseeing the digital and technological infrastructure supporting modern policing in Nigeria.

As Tunji Disu assumes office as Nigeria’s 23rd Inspector-General of Police, the nation watches closely. His appointment not only signals a new era at the top of the Force but also sets in motion a wider reshuffle that could redefine leadership, operational priorities, and reform within the Nigeria Police.

For the eight DIGs expected to retire, it marks the close of decades of service. For Disu, it is the start of a critical mission balancing hierarchy, reform, and national security at a time when public expectations have never been higher. The days ahead will test leadership, strategy, and the Force’s ability to respond to Nigeria’s evolving security challenges.