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The Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, has inaugurated an eight-member committee to oversee the implementation framework for state policing in Nigeria. At the inauguration ceremony, Disu announced the appointment of Professor Olu Ogunsakin, a renowned scholar in police studies, as chairman of the committee, while Commissioner of Police Bode Ojajuni will serve as secretary. The development marks a significant step toward decentralised policing, a reform initiative currently being championed by President Bola Tinubu. Read Also: IGP Disu Inaugurates State Police Committee, Unveils Policing Vision Tinubu Pushes State Police, Urges Governors to Focus on Poor, Youths Kano Govt Launches Neighbourhood Watch Corps to Strengthen Grassroots Security Describing the committee’s mandate as “significant and timely,” the IGP said the initiative responds directly to growing calls for strengthened internal security and community-responsive policing. “It is my greatest privilege to formally inaugurate this Committee on State Policing. The task before this committee is both significant and timely, as it speaks directly to the demand to strengthen Nigeria’s internal security and ensure that policing remains responsive to the realities of our communities,” Disu said. Committee Members The eight-member panel comprises: Professor Olu Ogunsakin – Chairman CP Bode Ojajuni – Secretary CP Emmanuel Ojukwu (Rtd) DCP Okebuchi Ogora ACP Ikechukwu Okafor CSP Tolulope Ipinmisho Other senior police officers The committee has been given four weeks to submit its report outlining modalities for implementing state police across the country. Profile of the Chairman: Prof. Olu Ogunsakin Professor Olu Ogunsakin is a distinguished academic and policing expert with extensive local and international experience. He currently serves as Director of the National Institute for Police Studies, an affiliate of the Nigeria Police Academy. Ogunsakin holds: A Ph.D. in Police Studies from the University of Exeter, United Kingdom An MA in Criminal Justice from the University of Detroit Mercy, USA A Postgraduate Certificate in Public Mediation from the University of Toronto A BSc in Human Resource Development from the University of Detroit Internationally, he served as Senior Adviser to the City of London Police, where he was appointed Cultural Diversity Adviser and developed standardised operational protocols for over a decade. He also worked as lead consultant on security and policing for the Department for International Development and the British Council in Nigeria. Within Nigeria, Ogunsakin served as Technical Adviser to former Inspector-General of Police, Mohammed Adamu. He has contributed to major policing reforms both in the United Kingdom and internationally, including working with the UK Home Office Specialist Support Unit and serving as Syndicate Director on the Strategic Command Course at Bramshill, the National Policing Improvement Agency’s flagship programme for future Chief Officers. He has lectured at leading global policing institutions, including Interpol, and is widely regarded as one of the foremost experts in contemporary policing practice. Background to State Police Reform State policing refers to the establishment of law enforcement agencies under the authority of individual state governments, rather than the current centrally controlled federal police structure under the Nigeria Police Force. Proponents argue that decentralisation would enhance rapid response to local threats, improve intelligence gathering, and deepen community engagement. Critics, however, warn against possible political interference, funding constraints, and oversight challenges. Recently, President Tinubu urged the leadership of the 10th Senate to initiate constitutional amendments to create the legal framework for state police. During a meeting with governors on February 23, he reiterated his administration’s determination to address insecurity through structural reforms. The newly inaugurated committee is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping that framework.

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. Read Also: Meet Nigeria’s New Acting IGP ASUP NILEST Celebrates Retiring Unionist, Demands Settlement of Entitlements Emir Aminu Ado Bayero To Lead National Ramadan Feeding Committee 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.

A Senior Reporter with TVC News, Ibrahim Ayyuba Isah, has recorded a significant professional milestone following his induction into two major public relations bodies in the United Kingdom and Africa. Isah, who is also the Chief Executive Officer of Ayrah Media Concept Ltd, was admitted as a Full Member of the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR) and an Associate Member of the African Public Relations Association (APRA). The development comes in addition to his existing membership of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), further strengthening his credentials within both local and international communication circles. The CIPR membership grade, known as MCIPR, is widely regarded as a top-tier professional recognition in the United Kingdom and Europe, awarded to practitioners with proven expertise in strategic communication and adherence to global ethical standards. His induction into APRA similarly positions him within a network of professionals shaping communication practice across Africa. Speaking on the achievement, Isah said the move was driven by the growing demands of global media consultancy and the need to align with international best practices. Read Also: Pantami Urges Northern Muslims to Invest in Media, Warns of Communication Deficit He noted that his firm, Ayrah Media Concept Ltd, currently manages high-level communication engagements, including work on the IsDB-funded Kano State Agropastoral Development Project (KSADP), which requires compliance with international standards. According to him, the dual membership ensures that his consultancy operations meet global benchmarks comparable to those in leading cities across Europe and Africa. Isah, who holds a Master’s degree in Public Relations and is currently pursuing a PhD at Nasarawa State University, has spent over a decade in broadcast journalism, covering major national issues. Industry observers say the recognition underscores the growing influence of Nigerian media professionals on the global stage and highlights the capacity of local practitioners to compete internationally. The achievement is expected to further enhance the strategic communication capacity of Ayrah Media Concept Ltd, particularly in handling both domestic and international projects.

By Umar Idris Shuaibu, Kano February 2026 marks fifty years since the assassination of General Murtala Ramat Muhammed, one of Nigeria’s most influential and charismatic leaders whose brief but impactful rule continues to resonate in the nation’s political consciousness. Born on November 8, 1938, in Kano, Murtala Ramat Muhammed emerged from a modest but disciplined background. He received his early education in Kano and Zaria before enlisting in the Nigerian Army in 1958. His military career was shaped by training in Ghana and at the Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst, in the United Kingdom, where he was commissioned as an officer in 1961. Muhammed quickly established himself as a bold and outspoken soldier, rising rapidly through the ranks. He played a notable role during the Nigerian Civil War as commander of the Second Infantry Division, further solidifying his reputation as a decisive and uncompromising officer. By the early 1970s, he had become one of the most influential figures within the armed forces, known for his intolerance for corruption and indiscipline. On July 29, 1975, a bloodless military coup ended the regime of General Yakubu Gowon while the latter was abroad. Murtala Muhammed emerged as Head of State, with Brigadier Olusegun Obasanjo as his deputy. His assumption of office was greeted with widespread public enthusiasm, as Nigerians yearned for purposeful leadership after years of stagnation. Within the few months he spent in power, Muhammed initiated sweeping reforms that reshaped Nigeria’s governance landscape. He ordered a purge of the civil service and military, retiring thousands of officials accused of corruption, inefficiency or abuse of office. Though controversial, the exercise restored public confidence in government and reinforced the principle of accountability. Read Also: Lere: A Historic Fulani Settlement and Cultural Crossroads in Kaduna Why Tarauni Remains a Pillar of Kano’s Metropolitan Development Kano Patriotic Front Marks Anniversary, Reaffirms Development Agenda His administration also laid the foundation for relocating Nigeria’s capital from Lagos to Abuja, a strategic decision aimed at fostering national unity and balanced development. He created new states to improve administration and representation and projected Nigeria as a principled African power on the global stage. His firm stance against apartheid and support for African liberation movements earned the country renewed continental respect. Perhaps most significant was his commitment to a return to civilian rule. Muhammed announced a transition programme that fixed 1979 as the end of military governance, reassuring Nigerians of his democratic intentions. However, his leadership style, marked by personal simplicity and minimal security, proved costly. On February 13, 1976, he was assassinated in Lagos while on his way to work. His convoy was ambushed near the Federal Secretariat in Ikoyi during a failed coup led by Lieutenant Colonel Bukar Suka Dimka. The Head of State, his aide-de-camp and his driver were killed in the attack. The assassination plunged Nigeria into deep mourning and abruptly ended one of the most dynamic leadership eras in the country’s history. The coup attempt collapsed within hours, and the conspirators were later arrested, tried and executed. Power was subsequently transferred to Lieutenant General Olusegun Obasanjo, who continued Muhammed’s transition programme and handed over to a civilian government in 1979. Fifty years later, Murtala Ramat Muhammed remains a symbol of courage, discipline and purposeful leadership. His image on the 20-naira note and landmarks such as the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos stand as enduring reminders of a leader whose vision left an indelible mark on Nigeria. Murtala Muhammed lived a life devoted to Nigeria, but behind his bold leadership stood his wife, Hafsatu Ajoke Muhammed, and their children, who shared in both his struggles and aspirations for the nation. Ajoke, born on 23 May 1941, combined her professional training as a dental therapist with a lifelong passion for environmental conservation. She established the Murtala Muhammed Memorial Botanical Garden in Lagos and the Sarius Palmetum and Botanic Garden in Abuja, ensuring that her husband’s legacy extended into green spaces and education for generations to come. Together with the family, she launched the Murtala Muhammed Foundation, preserving his memory while promoting social and developmental initiatives. The couple’s five children continue to uphold their father’s ideals of integrity, service, and commitment to Nigeria’s progress. Murtala Muhammed left behind six children, namely Aisha, Zakari (deceased), Fatima, Abba (Risqua), Zeliha, and Jummai. His eldest, Aisha Muhammed‑Oyebode, is a lawyer and entrepreneur actively involved in the Murtala Muhammed Foundation, carrying forward her father’s legacy of service. Zakari, the former eldest son, tragically passed away in 1994. Fatima pursued careers in horticulture and accountancy, while Abba built a career in business and public service. Zeliha works in the private sector after earning a degree in economics, and Jummai, who was very young when her father was killed, has since been engaged in social and developmental initiatives. A Sister’s Reflection As the nation commemorates the 50th anniversary of his death, one of his surviving sisters, Hajiya Balaraba Ramat, has shared personal reflections on the man behind the uniform. She described her late brother as a principled, disciplined and deeply religious leader who was unwavering in his commitment to truth and justice. “My brother was a man of integrity. He believed strongly in doing what was right and never hesitated to correct wrongdoing,” she said. According to her, Murtala Muhammed was devoted to his faith and maintained strict observance of his daily prayers, encouraging family members and associates to remain steadfast in worship. “Prayer was very important to him. He constantly reminded those around him to remain faithful and disciplined in their devotion,” she recalled. Hajiya Balaraba also spoke about the painful moment the family received his remains after the assassination in 1976, describing it as one of the most heartbreaking experiences of their lives. “That day remains unforgettable for our family. Seeing him for the last time was extremely painful,” she said. She maintained that her brother’s resolve to reform Nigeria and create better opportunities for younger generations made him a target. “He genuinely wanted to build a country where young people would