The Nigeria Police Force has announced a fresh shake-up in its public communication unit, appointing Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Iniedu Okokon as the new Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO), barely three months after the last appointment to the position.
Okokon takes over from Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Anthony Placid, whose appointment as police spokesperson came shortly after Olatunji Disu assumed office as the 23rd Inspector General of Police.
The sudden leadership change has sparked questions within security circles, especially given the short duration of Placid’s tenure. As of press time, the police authorities have yet to issue a detailed explanation for the latest development.
Placid confirmed the change in a brief response when contacted, acknowledging that he had been replaced. However, he did not provide further details regarding the decision.
Sources familiar with developments at the Force Headquarters disclosed that Placid has been redeployed to the Lagos State Command, where he is expected to head the Finance and Administration unit.
His redeployment comes amid ongoing internal restructuring within the police hierarchy under the leadership of the new Inspector General.
The spokesperson position became vacant following the death of DCP Khan Salihu, who reportedly passed away after a brief illness. His death created a gap in the police communication structure, leading to subsequent appointments and recent adjustments.
Okokon is expected to assume office immediately and will now oversee the Force’s public communication, media relations, and official engagement with Nigerians.
Before his appointment, the new police spokesperson served as the head of the Complaint Response Unit (CRU), where he played a key role in handling public complaints and strengthening accountability channels within the force.
Meanwhile, the newly created Force New Media unit will remain under the supervision of CSP Aliyu Giwa, who is expected to continue overseeing the police’s digital communication strategy and online public engagement.
The latest reshuffle signals ongoing efforts by the police leadership to reposition key departments as the new administration settles into office.
However, further clarification is expected from the police authorities in the coming days.
