IGP Takes Action To Limit Police Role In Political Conflicts

The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, is reportedly taking decisive measures to limit the involvement of the Nigeria Police Force in politically sensitive issues nationwide. According to Ireporter Online, the initiative is aimed at restoring professionalism and ensuring neutrality within the Force.

The move comes in the wake of controversy in Osun State, where police personnel were deployed to local government secretariats amid a dispute over the tenure of council chairmen. The situation, currently before the courts, drew national attention and sparked debates over the appropriate role of law enforcement in political conflicts.

Court records indicate that the tenures of the affected chairmen expired in October 2025, although some reportedly continued to occupy their offices. Sources within the Force Headquarters disclosed that the IGP is reviewing legal briefs and internal reports to prevent perceptions that the police are supporting unlawful office occupancy.

According to the sources, directives may soon be issued to withdraw police officers from disputed local government secretariats and redeploy them to routine duties. The initiative is also expected to address concerns regarding police involvement in political petitions and arrests linked to political actors.

One source explained that the reforms are part of a broader effort to reinforce impartiality within the Force. “The new IGP is planning reforms to restore the integrity of the police. The report he received in the case involving Osun, for instance, highlighted concerns about public perception and the need to maintain impartiality,” the source said. Another insider added, “He has specific instructions to ensure a level playing field for all political parties, directly from the National Security Adviser and the President.”

Meanwhile, a Federal High Court in Osogbo has dismissed applications seeking to delay proceedings in a suit concerning the tenure of local government officials in Osun State. Justice A.A. Demi-Ajayi rejected two applications filed by the All Progressives Congress (APC) seeking adjournment, stating that the matter had lingered excessively and the court would no longer entertain “needless adjournment in the interest of justice.”

The suit, filed by APC officials seeking judicial clarification on the legality of their tenure, saw plaintiffs arguing that a Court of Appeal judgment restored them to office. The defendants, however, contended that the decision was misinterpreted and that continued occupation of secretariats by the officials amounted to disobedience of prior court rulings. The court subsequently directed all parties to proceed with presenting their cases as it prepares to deliver judgment.