JUST IN: President Tinubu Blocks Mass Retirement of 30 DIGs, AIGs After Tunji Disu Takes Over as Acting IGP
By Trek Africa Newspaper
President Tinubu in a warm handshake with the new Acting Inspector General of Police, Ag. IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu shortly after decorating the new Acting IGP Disu at the State House…
President Bola Tinubu has halted a planned mass retirement of about 30 senior officers of the Nigeria Police Force following the exit of former IGP Kayode Egbetokun and the appointment of Acting IGP Tunji Disu.
According to sources, the move stopped the compulsory retirement of several Deputy Inspectors General (DIGs) and Assistant Inspectors General (AIGs), a shake-up that typically follows leadership transitions at the top of the Force.
Why the Shake-Up Was Expected
Historically, the appointment of a new Inspector-General often triggers the exit of senior officers to preserve command hierarchy and align leadership structures.
An internal list reportedly included at least eight DIGs such as:
Yahaya Abubakar (Finance)
Adebola Hamzat (Logistics)
Adebowale Williams (ICT)
Frank Mba (Training)
However, the Presidency intervened, reportedly insisting that Acting IGP Disu requires the experience of the senior officers to stabilise operations.
Disu’s Tight Timeline
Disu, born April 13, 1966, is scheduled to retire on April 13, 2026, upon reaching the mandatory retirement age of 60. Though the amended Police Act allows an IGP to serve a four-year tenure regardless of age, sources suggest he may not enjoy such an extension.
Insiders claim there is growing pressure for Disu to step down strictly in line with his statutory retirement date — unlike his predecessor.
What This Means
Senior officers who were facing compulsory retirement may now remain in service — at least temporarily.
The Police Service Commission has reportedly paused its retirement process.
The decision could reshape internal power dynamics within the Force in the coming weeks.
The development has reignited nationwide debate over succession practices, tenure extensions, and stability within Nigeria’s top law enforcement institution.
