A leadership change has taken place within the Nigeria Police Force as Aliyu Abubakar has assumed command of the Inspector General of Police Monitoring Unit, succeeding Akin Fakorede.
Abubakar, a Deputy Commissioner of Police, is now tasked with overseeing the activities of the Police Monitoring Team, with a clear mandate to strengthen accountability, enforce discipline, and ensure professionalism across the force. Sources familiar with the development said his role includes monitoring officers’ conduct, investigating cases of alleged misconduct, and carrying out special assignments as directed by the Inspector General of Police.
The transition is part of broader efforts by the leadership of the Nigeria Police Force to reinforce internal oversight and rebuild public confidence in law enforcement institutions.
The development follows the redeployment of Fakorede, who was placed on mandatory leave and is expected to resume in a new role as Commissioner of Police in charge of Research after the stipulated period. His removal from the monitoring unit earlier in March came on the directive of the Inspector General of Police, Olatunji Disu.
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Fakorede’s tenure had attracted sustained criticism from civil society organisations and human rights groups over allegations linked to his time as a former commander of the disbanded Special Anti-Robbery Squad. Concerns ranged from claims of brutality and misconduct to accusations of bias in sensitive operations.
He was also mentioned in connection with controversies surrounding a land dispute at River Park Estate in Abuja, as well as reported clashes involving journalists and workers during protests in early 2026. In addition, Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, had publicly criticised his record, raising concerns about his past conduct in Rivers State.
Security analysts note that the appointment of Abubakar signals a renewed push by police authorities to address longstanding concerns about internal discipline and operational transparency. They add that the effectiveness of the monitoring unit will be closely watched, given its central role in investigating misconduct and enforcing standards within the force.
With the new leadership in place, expectations are high that the Police Monitoring Team will adopt a more rigorous approach to oversight, ensuring that officers adhere strictly to professional and ethical standards.
