The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has issued a sweeping directive to Commissioners of Police nationwide, ordering an immediate end to extortion, illegal checkpoints, harassment of citizens and other acts of misconduct.

He declared that restoring public confidence in the Nigeria Police Force was now a top operational priority.
The order was contained in a signal to members of the police management team, including Commissioners of Police (CPs) and other operational commanders.

In the strongly worded marching order, the IGP acknowledged the deep mistrust many Nigerians feel toward officers, describing it as “painful” and unacceptable.

He said citizens now fear encounters with the police as much as they fear criminals, warning that such a reputation cannot continue under his leadership.

According to him, the directive marks the beginning of a determined effort to rebuild discipline within the police and re-establish its legitimacy in the eyes of the public.

The order specifically outlawed the routine collection of money from motorists on highways, the operation of unauthorised checkpoints, and the practice of arresting citizens and forcing them to withdraw cash from Automated Teller Machines (ATMs).

The IGP also condemned the use of officers for private duties in homes and businesses, describing such deployments as abuse of authority and a violation of existing presidential directives on VIP protection.

Officers were further directed to comply strictly with approved dress codes, remain clean-shaven and adhere to established uniform regulations.

HE paid a glowing tribute to his predecessor, Adeolu Egbetokun, for his contributions and service to development of modern policing in Nigeria.

Disu said this in his speech delivered at a grand reception organised by the Yewa Peoples Development Council in collaboration with the Yewa Traditional Council, at the weekend, in Ilaro, in honour of the 22nd indigenous IGP and the first from Ogun State.
Represented by the Assistant Inspector General of Police in charge of Zone 2, Onikan, AIG Olohundare Jimoh, the IGP, while speaking on the theme of the programme, “Celebrating A Life of Service, Integrity and Leadership: The Smartest and Mathematical IGP”, described the retired Police Chief as a prominent,highly successful, and eminent son of Yewaland.