The Nigeria Police Force has dismissed reports claiming that the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, ordered the disbandment of all police units and squads across state commands, describing such claims as misleading.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the Force Public Relations Officer, Anthony Okon Placid, clarified that the IGP did not dissolve all tactical units but instead directed a restructuring aimed at reducing their number and improving efficiency.
According to him, “the publication is a misrepresentation of the Inspector-General’s directives. At no time did the IGP order the outright disbandment of all tactical units nationwide.”
He explained that the directive was informed by growing public concerns over the operations of tactical teams, particularly the proliferation of multiple units created at various command levels without adequate supervision.
“The IGP recognises the critical role tactical teams play in crime-fighting,” Placid said. “However, he is concerned about their unchecked expansion, which has led to manpower shortages at police divisions and contributed to operational excesses that affect the image of the Force.”
As part of the reforms, the IGP has directed that tactical teams at Zonal and State Command levels be limited to a maximum of five, while Area Commands and Divisions are restricted to no more than three teams.
“This adjustment can be implemented through mergers or selective disbandment, depending on what heads of formations consider appropriate,” he added.
The police spokesperson further noted that the directive does not apply to state-backed security outfits such as Lagos State’s Rapid Response Squad, Oyo State’s Special Response Squad, and similar units established by state governments.
Placid stated that the restructuring is expected to release more officers back to police stations, thereby strengthening grassroots policing and addressing public complaints about misconduct.
Reiterating the IGP’s commitment to accountability, he said, “this step is part of ongoing efforts to ensure better supervision, enhance professionalism, and build a more people-oriented police force.”
The Police leadership urged the public and media organisations to verify information before publication to avoid spreading misinformation about ongoing reforms within the Force.
