PORT HARCOURT, RIVERS STATE — Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has praised the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Rilwan Disu, for his professionalism, integrity and commitment to duty during his tenure as Commissioner of Police in Rivers State, describing his elevation to the nation’s top police position as a reward for meritorious service.
Fubara made the remarks on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, when the IGP paid him a courtesy visit at Government House, Port Harcourt, accompanied by senior police officers, including the Commissioners of Police for Rivers and Bayelsa states, the Eastern Port Command, and heads of other security agencies.
The governor expressed delight at receiving Disu, recalling that the police chief served in Rivers State during one of the most challenging periods in its political history.
According to Fubara, Disu remained committed to his constitutional responsibilities and sought to balance competing interests despite the political crisis that characterised his tenure in the state.
“While he was here as a Commissioner, he was here at the peak of crisis. But I can tell you that he did his work, not minding the situation. He tried as much as he could to balance all the areas,” the governor said.
Fubara described Disu’s return to Rivers State as a homecoming, expressing pride that an officer who served during a difficult period had risen to the highest leadership position in the Nigeria Police Force.
“I feel very happy that somebody who left here in a very difficult situation, in a very trying time, did wonderfully well, is here today visiting us in a higher capacity,” he stated.
The governor also wished the IGP success in tackling the country’s security challenges, particularly as Nigeria prepares for the 2027 general elections.
He expressed confidence in Disu’s ability to navigate the challenges ahead and offered prayers for greater success in his new assignment.
Fubara further reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies in maintaining peace, protecting lives and property, and strengthening security across Rivers State.
The visit also provided an opportunity for the police chief to reconnect with the state, where he previously served as Commissioner of Police before his redeployment.
Earlier, Disu explained that his visit was connected to his attendance at the book launch of retired Deputy Inspector-General of Police Dame Stella Obuoforibo Okuyiga, formerly known as Opuiyo. He also used the opportunity to return to Rivers State, where he had previously served.
Disu’s tenure as Rivers State Commissioner of Police attracted recognition for his handling of security operations amid the state’s turbulent political climate.
In October 2024, Fubara, through the Secretary to the State Government, Tammy Wenike Danagogo, commended Disu’s performance during a farewell event organised in his honour as he left the command.
The governor’s latest remarks reinforce his appreciation of the police chief’s service and the importance of professionalism, neutrality and institutional responsibility in policing.
Disu assumed office as the 23rd indigenous Inspector-General of Police in February 2026, succeeding Kayode Egbetokun. His appointment was subsequently ratified by the Nigeria Police Council in March 2026.
As the country approaches another election cycle, the IGP faces the responsibility of strengthening public confidence in the police, addressing security threats and ensuring that law enforcement agencies carry out their duties professionally and impartially.
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