The Nigeria Police Force has debunked widespread reports claiming that the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, ordered the wholesale disbandment of all police tactical units across state commands, describing the publication as a misrepresentation of his directive.
In a statement issued on March 22, 2026, by Force Public Relations Officer, Anthony Okon Placid, the police clarified that the IGP did not dissolve all tactical squads but instead ordered a nationwide restructuring aimed at reducing their number and improving oversight.
According to the statement, the IGP—who is described as a grassroots officer with extensive experience across the country—acknowledged growing public concern over the operations and proliferation of tactical units. The creation of multiple teams by Commissioners of Police and heads of formations, the statement noted, has led to manpower shortages at police divisions and allegations of misconduct by poorly supervised units.
Rather than a blanket disbandment, Disu has directed that tactical teams at Zonal and State Command levels be reduced to a maximum of five, while those at Area Command and Divisional levels should not exceed three. The restructuring may involve merging or disbanding units at the discretion of formation heads.
The police further clarified that the directive does not apply to state government-backed security outfits such as Lagos State’s Rapid Response Squad, Oyo State’s Special Response Squad (SRS), and Bayelsa State’s Operation DOO-AKPOR, among others.
The Force explained that the move is intended to redeploy officers to understaffed police stations, enhance supervision, and curb excesses that have drawn public criticism in recent years. It also aligns with the IGP’s pledge to promote accountability and foster a more people-friendly police force.
“The objective is to strengthen Police Divisions, improve service delivery, and eliminate factors contributing to complaints against the Force,” the statement added.
The clarification comes amid heightened public sensitivity to police reforms and ongoing calls for improved accountability within law enforcement agencies in Nigeria.
