CP Olatunji Disu: How A Seasoned Cop is Redefining Policing in FCT
By Kabir Akintayo,
The redeployment of former Rivers State Commissioner of Police (CP), Olatunji Rilwan Disu, to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in October 2024 was a strategic move that many security experts had long anticipated.
It came at a critical time when Abuja was grappling with escalating security threats, including armed robberies, car-snatching, and the notorious ‘one chance’ criminal syndicates.
Disu’s appointment succeeded the tenure of Benneth Igweh, a proactive leader whose reforms had restored hope and confidence in Abuja’s security architecture. The question on everyone’s mind was whether Disu, with his stellar reputation and track record, could sustain and elevate these achievements.
A Legacy of Excellence
CP Disu’s commendable tenure as the Commissioner of Police in Rivers State earned him national acclaim, culminating in his recognition as the Best CP of 2024 by Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun during the maiden Nigeria Police Awards and Commendation ceremony.
Disu’s tenure in Rivers State was marked by groundbreaking achievements, including the neutralization of high-profile criminals like Gift Okpara, alias “2Baba,” a notorious serial kidnapper, and the apprehension of long-wanted fugitives such as John Togo and Daddy Chukwu, alias “Oboni.”
His ability to deliver results through strategic planning, inter-agency collaboration, and community engagement made him a natural choice for Abuja, where rising insecurity had unsettled residents and stakeholders alike.
Hitting the Ground Running
Upon assuming office on October 7, 2024, CP Disu wasted no time identifying Abuja’s peculiar security challenges. He immediately announced a zero-tolerance policy for crime and outlined a roadmap for restoring peace and safety to the territory.
His strategies centered on strengthening stakeholder partnerships, enhancing intelligence gathering, leveraging technology, promoting community policing, and prioritizing the welfare and training of officers.
One of his first initiatives was to improve communication with the public. Disu made his personal phone number available to residents, demonstrating his commitment to transparency and responsiveness.
He visited the outskirts of the FCT, engaging with traditional leaders, youth groups, and residents to understand their concerns and foster trust between the police and the community.
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Strategic Interventions and Tangible Results
To combat the persistent ‘one chance’ menace, Disu intensified patrols, launched stop-and-search operations, and deployed advanced surveillance techniques. Recognizing the role of tinted vehicles in aiding criminals, he restricted their use while exempting factory-fitted and health-related tinted cars.
These measures swiftly curtailed robberies and led to the recovery of stolen vehicles. CP Disu also prioritized collaboration with sister security agencies. His visits to the Guards Brigade, Naval Unit, NSCDC, and other agencies underscored his commitment to fostering inter-agency synergy.
This approach not only enhanced intelligence sharing but also ensured a unified front against Abuja’s security challenges.
To address officers’ capacity gaps, Disu initiated a Tactical Training Refresher Course approved by the IGP. The program emphasized marksmanship, riot control, and weapon handling, ensuring officers were well-equipped to tackle emerging threats.
Disu’s emphasis on media synergy further underscored his forward-thinking approach. In one of his earliest actions, he hosted a media parley to ensure accurate reporting of security issues and foster public awareness.
Navigating Complex Challenges
The security situation in Abuja before Disu’s arrival was dire. Reports indicated that at least 36 people were killed, and 339 others abducted across the FCT in 2023. Banditry spilling over from neighboring states had driven many residents from the city’s outskirts, with criminals increasingly targeting urban centers.
FCT Minister Nyesom Wike’s provision of critical resources, including patrol vehicles, coupled with Disu’s leadership, marked a turning point. Within months, the sense of safety among residents began to return, with businesses and nightlife gradually regaining momentum.
Milestones and the Path Forward
By the end of 2024, the FCT Police Command under Disu reported a 15.1% reduction in crime. Key achievements included 1,077 arrests, 128 convictions, and the rescue of 87 kidnapped victims. The recovery of 376 firearms, 97 stolen vehicles, and over ₦409 million in cash further highlighted the success of his strategies.
Despite these gains, Disu acknowledged the sacrifices of officers who lost their lives in the line of duty and called for better welfare and safety measures for law enforcement personnel. He also emphasized the need for continuous adaptation to Abuja’s dynamic security landscape, advocating for the integration of advanced technology and stronger community partnerships.
A Leadership Defined by Results
CP Olatunji Disu’s tenure in Abuja has redefined policing in the nation’s capital. His proactive measures, emphasis on intelligence-driven operations, and unwavering commitment to public engagement have not only bolstered security but also restored public confidence in the police force.
As Abuja continues to grow, Disu’s leadership provides a blueprint for addressing urban security challenges in Nigeria. Residents and stakeholders now look to his administration with optimism, trusting in his ability to sustain progress and ensure the FCT remains a safe and thriving capital city.
