The Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Tunde Disu, on Saturday, paid a familiarisation visit to Lagos, where he met with officers of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) at the Lagos State secretariat and reconnected with members of the Lagos State Governor’s Office Correspondents (LAGOCO), admonishing policemen nationwide to see the citizen as the boss.
Speaking during the brief call at the Centre, he said: “I have told them not to bring the name of the Rapid Response Squad down.
They must treat members of the public as their bosses because they are funded by taxpayers. Without the community, the police cannot succeed,” he said.
The IGP expressed delight at returning to a familiar environment where he once served as Commander of the RRS. He noted the strong bond he shared with both officers and journalists during his time in Lagos, while also appreciating their longstanding cooperation and support over the years.
“I’m so happy to be here again and to see all of you. We worked together as one when I was the commander of the Rapid Response Squad. Our offices were side by side, and we shared not just boundaries but experiences,” he said.
The police chief disclosed that his visit included meetings with the Commissioner of Police, the Assistant Inspector-General of Police and a scheduled courtesy call on Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
Addressing RRS personnel earlier, Egbetokun charged officers to uphold professionalism and avoid actions that could tarnish the image of the squad. He emphasised the importance of community-oriented policing, reminding officers that members of the public remain central to police operations.
He further encouraged officers to see citizens as partners in security efforts, stressing that collaboration between the police and the public was critical to effective policing.
Responding on behalf of the press corps, Chairman of LAGOCO, George Okojie, welcomed the IGP, describing his visit as significant and deeply appreciated.
“We are honoured to receive you. The relationship we shared when you were RRS commander was exceptional. You treated us like brothers and supported many of us in our personal and professional lives,” the representative said.
The journalists recalled Disu’s accessibility and generosity during his previous role, noting that his rise to the position of IGP was widely celebrated among media practitioners in Lagos.
“We know the Nigerian Police is in good hands. Under your leadership, we are confident the image of the force will improve significantly,” the spokesperson added.
The visit underscored the IGP’s commitment to strengthening internal discipline within the force while maintaining strong ties with the media and the communities they serve.
