Since Nigeria’s return to democratic rule in 1999, appointments of Inspectors-General of Police (IGP) have reflected varying regional patterns under different administrations.
During the presidency of Olusegun Obasanjo (1999–2007), all three IGPs appointed were from the South-West. They include Musiliu Smith, Mustafa Balogun, and Sunday Ehindero.
Under Umaru Musa Yar’Adua (2007–2010), the appointments shifted to the South-East, with Mike Okiro and Ogbonna Onovo serving as IGPs during his tenure.
The administration of Goodluck Jonathan (2010–2015) saw all appointed IGPs come from the North-West. Those who held the office during this period were Hafiz Ringim, Mohammed Dikko Abubakar, and Suleiman Abba.
During the presidency of Muhammadu Buhari (2015–2023), IGP appointments were spread across multiple regions. Solomon Arase represented the South-South; Ibrahim Kpotun Idris and Mohammed Abubakar Adamu were from the North-Central; while Usman Alkali Baba hailed from the North-East.
Under the current administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, two IGPs have emerged from the South-West. Kayode Egbetokun currently serves as Inspector-General of Police. Reports indicate that the next IGP is Tunji Disu, an Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG), who is also from the South-West.
The pattern of appointments continues to generate public conversation about regional balance and representation in Nigeria’s top security leadership.
Credit: Ethnic African Stories
