The Nigeria Police Force has refuted reports claiming that Inspector-General Olatunji Disu ordered a total disbandment of tactical units across state commands.
In a clarifying statement released on Sunday, the Force noted that online reports had misinterpreted the IGP’s recent directives regarding structural changes.
The NPF explained that the IGP’s primary concern is the uncontrolled proliferation of tactical teams at state and divisional levels.
This expansion has reportedly strained available manpower and contributed to an increase in public complaints regarding officer misconduct.
To optimize operations and improve accountability, the IGP has mandated the following caps:
*Zonal and State Commands: Tactical teams are to be reduced to a maximum of five.
*Area Commands and Divisions: Local teams are now limited to a maximum of three.
The move is aimed at improving supervision, freeing up personnel for regular police duties, and reducing complaints against poorly supervised tactical units.
The Force clarified that this directive does not apply to state-funded security outfits, such as Lagos State’s Rapid Response Squad (RRS), Oyo’s Swift Response Squad (SRS), or Bayelsa’s Operation DOO-AKPOR.
Command Heads retain the discretion to merge or restructure their internal teams as necessary to comply with the new limits.
The statement further emphasized that IGP Olatunji Disu—a veteran officer with extensive command experience—recognizes the vital role tactical teams play in combatting crime.
However, his goal is to ensure their operations are more accountable and “people-friendly.”
Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Okon Placid, noted that this restructuring is a key pillar of a broader effort to strengthen local divisions, boost operational efficiency, and restore public trust in the Force.
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