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By Lawrence Agbo
The appointment of a new Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Tunji Disu, marks another significant transition for Nigeria’s top law enforcement institution, especially at a time when the nation faces complex security challenges ranging from banditry and kidnapping to cybercrime and urban violence.
With over three decades in the Nigeria Police Force, a reputation as a tactical operator, intelligence strategist, and administrative leader, Disu’s rise to the top job did not happen overnight.
As Tunji Disu assumes his new office as the leader of the force, many Nigerians are asking: Who is Tunji Disu? and what shaped his career?
Daily Sun brings to you 5 things to know about the new IGP who assumed office on February 24 2026, at age 59.
1. His early life and career spanned over 30 years
Tunji Disu was originally named Olatunji Rilwan Disu, born on 13 April 1966 on Lagos Island, Lagos State, Nigeria. He has dedicated more than three decades to the Nigeria Police Force, rising through the ranks from operational posts to strategic command positions.
Throughout his service, Disu is known for leading tactical units, coordinating nationwide deployments, and overseeing high-profile operations that strengthened policing in Lagos, Abuja, and Rivers State.
2. Key role during the EndSARS protests
Disu played a critical role during the 2020 EndSARS protests, a period marked by nationwide calls for police reform and accountability, which led to his rebranding of officers as “The Good Guys”. He distinguished himself with his approach in balancing law enforcement with public engagement to maintain peace in volatile environments.
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Under his supervision, as the then Commander of the Lagos State Police Rapid Response Squad (RRS), he prevented escalation in high-risk areas and provided medical assistance to injured protesters by deploying ambulances.
3. Capturing notorious kidnap kingpin Evans
He succeeded Abba Kyari as head of the Police Intelligence Response Team (IRT) and led the operation that successfully captured the notorious kidnap kingpinChukwudumeme Onwuamadike, popularly known as Evans, who had orchestrated multiple abductions across the South-West.
The capture of Evans disrupted a major criminal network responsible for several high-profile kidnappings in Lagos and Ogun States.
4. Tackling organized crime in Rivers State
Disu became Commissioner of Police in Rivers State in March 2025, where he focused on dismantling organized crime syndicates, including violent cult groups and armed robbery rings.
Key achievements include the arrest of notorious gang leaders such as Gift Okpara (aka 2Baba) and David Izuma Moses (aka General Odiereke), which effectively reduced violent crime and improved security in the state.
5. Beyond policing: sports and civic engagement
Outside the police force, Disu is an accomplished judoka, representing Nigeria in multiple competitions both locally and internationally.
He won a silver medal at the US Open Judo Championship in 2022, competing against over 500 international athletes. He has won several other medals, including two gold medals at the National Sport Festival, honours at the Nigeria Police and Armed Forces Games and gold at the Nigeria Police Veterans Championship in 2021.
