The recent resignation of Kayode Egbetokun and the appointment of Olatunji Disu as Acting Inspector-General of Police have triggered a familiar pattern within the Nigeria Police Force, the likely retirement of senior officers who are above the new police chief in rank and seniority.
Although not expressly mandated by law, it is an entrenched institutional tradition for senior officers, particularly Deputy Inspectors-General (DIGs), to step aside when a junior officer is elevated to the position of IGP. This practice is largely driven by the need to preserve hierarchy, discipline, and organisational cohesion within the Force.
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Findings by ‘The Historica Nigeria‘ indicate that several serving DIGs may be affected by this development.
Profiles of Likely Affected DIGs
Frank Mba
A seasoned officer and widely recognised public communicator, Frank Mba rose through the ranks from Inspector to Assistant Inspector-General of Police. He is a three-time Force Public Relations Officer and a recipient of the United Nations Medal for his service in Liberia. His career reflects a blend of operational policing and strategic communication.
Mohammed Gumel
Currently overseeing the Force Intelligence Department, Gumel is regarded as a strong advocate of community policing. His leadership in intelligence gathering has contributed significantly to internal security coordination. He is also a recipient of professional honours, including recognition as Community Policing Advocate of the Year (2024).
Adebola Hamzat
Serving as DIG in charge of Logistics and Supply, Hamzat supervises critical aspects of police operations, including procurement, infrastructure, and resource management. His prior roles include AIG Zone 16 and Commissioner of Police in Oyo State.
Yahaya Abubakar
As head of Finance and Administration, Abubakar plays a pivotal role in managing the Force’s financial systems, budgeting, and personnel administration. His experience spans multiple senior leadership roles within the Force.
Basil Idegwu
A PhD holder in Peace and Security Studies, Idegwu leads the Department of Research and Planning. His work focuses on policy development, strategic reforms, and modernisation of policing structures in Nigeria.
Bzigu Kwazhi
Kwazhi heads the Department of Operations, one of the most critical arms of the Force. He oversees nationwide tactical operations, including election security, riot control, and joint security engagements. His field experience includes leadership roles in conflict-prone states.
Sadiq Idris Abubakar
An accomplished academic and police officer, Sadiq Idris Abubakar holds advanced degrees in Psychology and Education. His career reflects a strong blend of intellectual depth and policing experience, having risen from Cadet ASP to the rank of DIG.
Adebowale Williams
Currently leading the Department of Information and Communication Technology, Williams is at the forefront of integrating digital solutions into policing. His role is central to advancing modern law enforcement infrastructure in Nigeria.
Institutional Implications
The possible retirement of these senior officers underscores the ripple effect of leadership transition at the top of the Force.
While the development may lead to the exit of highly experienced personnel, it also opens up opportunities for the emergence of a new generation of police leadership.
Analysts note that such transitions, though routine, come with both challenges and opportunities particularly in maintaining operational continuity while introducing new strategic direction under the acting IGP.
As Olatunji Disu settles into his new role, attention will be focused on how the Force navigates this transition and sustains its mandate of ensuring internal security across the country.