“Honour the uniform or leave”: Disu sends strong warning to police officers

By Monday Ijeh

The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Mr Olatunji Disu, has called on personnel of the Nigeria Police Force to rise above actions that could diminish the honour and integrity of their uniforms.

Disu made the call on Tuesday in Abuja at an event to mark the 2026 National Police Day with the theme, Community Partnership: Building Trust.

“We must rise above indiscipline, misconduct and above every action that diminishes the honor of our uniform,” he said.

He said the National Police Day was a moment that would define the Nigeria Police Force, both at present and in the future.

According to him, the National Police Day is a moment of truth, a moment to honour sacrifice, a moment to reflect with honesty and a moment to make a clear statement.

He said it was also a moment to make a clear commitment about the future of policing in Nigeria.

“To the officers and men of the Nigerian Police Force across our country, I speak to you today, not just as your I-G, but as one of you.

“I know the risks you take, I know the sacrifices you make, I know the pressure you face, I recognise your dedication, and I salute your courage.

“I must also speak with clarity because this moment demands honesty, and the Nigerian Police Force must rise,” he said.

The I-G warned that rank would not shield wrongdoing, uniform would never excuse abuse and authority would not override the rule of law.

According to him, accountability under my leadership will be firm, fair and without exception and will stand firmly with every officer who does what is right.

Disu said his leadership would improve personnel welfare, strengthen their capacities, and ensure that they were properly equipped.

He said a respected professional police force must be built on officers who were supported, trained and treated with dignity.

“To the Nigerian people, I speak today not with promises, but with commitment, we understand your concerns.

“We acknowledge the distance that has grown between the Nigerian people and us; we will continue to support you and are determined to close that gap.

“You will see a police force that is more accountable, more professional, more disciplined and more humane.

“A police force that does not intimidate but protects, that does not agitate but partners, that does not instil fear but earns respect,” he said.

(NAN)