Nigeria Police Clarifies Tactical Unit Restructuring, Rejects ‘Disbandment’ Claims
The Nigeria Police Force has corrected widespread reports that Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Disu ordered the complete dissolution of all police tactical units nationwide. The Force described such reports as a misrepresentation of a directive focused on restructuring, not abolition.
In a statement from Force Headquarters in Abuja, Force Public Relations Officer Anthony Okon Placid clarified that the IGP’s directive aims to enhance efficiency, accountability, and public trust through a strategic reduction in tactical teams, not a wholesale disbandment.
The clarification follows online publications claiming the IGP directed the immediate dissolution of multiple tactical squads. The Force stated the directive was misinterpreted. Instead, the new policy mandates a rationalisation of tactical units across all formations.
Under the restructured framework, Zonal and State Commands are now limited to a maximum of five tactical teams each. Area Commands and Divisions are restricted to no more than three such teams. Commissioners of Police and heads of other formations have the discretion to achieve this reduction by merging or disbanding existing units as they see fit.
This move addresses growing public concern over the proliferation of tactical squads and associated allegations of misconduct. The IGP acknowledged the vital role these units play in crime-fighting but expressed worry over their unchecked expansion.
“The proliferation of these teams has not only drained personnel from Police Divisions and Posts but has also led to issues affecting the integrity of the Force, particularly due to the excesses of poorly supervised units,” the statement noted.
The restructuring is designed to free up officers for redeployment to police stations, strengthening community-level policing and mitigating complaints about tactical operatives’ conduct.
The Force specified that the directive does not apply to state-sponsored security outfits, such as Lagos State’s Rapid Response Squad, Oyo State’s Special Response Squad, and Bayelsa’s Operation DOO-AKPOR.
This reform forms part of broader efforts by IGP Disu to reposition the Nigeria Police Force as more accountable and service-oriented. Upon assuming office, Disu pledged to prioritise professionalism, improve supervision, and rebuild public confidence. The latest step tightens operational oversight, aiming to ensure tactical teams function within defined limits while remaining effective against crime. Implementation now rests with regional police leadership to balance specialised response with foundational policing needs.
