IGP Olatunji Disu Orders DIG Deployment Across Zones

The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has directed the deployment of Deputy Inspectors-General of Police (DIGs) to their assigned zones from June 15 as part of efforts to strengthen security operations nationwide.

Disu announced the directive on Tuesday in Abuja during a meeting with Strategic Police Managers, comprising officers from the rank of Commissioner of Police (CP) and above. He explained that the move is designed to improve supervision, strengthen operational coordination, increase accountability and provide stronger leadership across police formations.

According to the police chief, the deployed DIGs will work closely with Assistant Inspectors-General of Police (AIGs) and CPs within their respective zones to ensure that directives are effectively carried out and that measurable outcomes are achieved. He stressed that the deployment is intended to deliver practical results rather than serve as a symbolic exercise.

“Let me make it clear that this deployment is not ceremonial; it is intended to bring leadership closer to the field, improve response mechanism and ensure that emergency reports receive prompt attention,” he said.

The IGP also instructed CPs to establish coordinated handshake patrols with neighbouring states to prevent criminals from exploiting state boundaries to evade arrest. He said offenders often commit crimes in one state and escape into another, making stronger inter-state collaboration essential.

To address this challenge, Disu directed police commands to coordinate patrols along key entry and exit routes, strengthen intelligence sharing and maintain open communication channels. He also urged CPs to work closely with counterparts in neighbouring states and regularly review security deployments.

On public communication, the police chief encouraged senior officers to maintain constructive engagement with the media. He said effective communication is vital to building public trust and ensuring accurate information reaches citizens.

Disu further emphasised the importance of community policing, describing it as a practical security approach built on strong partnerships between law enforcement agencies and local communities. He noted that lasting security can only be achieved through active cooperation between the police and the public.

Do you think stronger collaboration between states and community policing can significantly reduce crime across Nigeria?