**The Merit Behind Tinubu's IGP Choice: A Tradition of Excellence** In the ever-changing landscape of Nigerian politics, one thing remains constant - the importance of merit in leadership appointments. The recent choice of Acting Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Olatunji Rilwan Disu by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has sparked a heated debate, with many questioning the decision-making process behind the appointment. However, according to prominent political analyst Chinedu Eze, the endorsement of Disu's appointment reflects a well-calculated move rooted in experience, tradition, and operational excellence. Eze's analysis reveals that Disu's career trajectory is a testament to his professional competence and leadership capacity within security circles. His experience spans operational command, intelligence-led policing, international peacekeeping, and administrative leadership, making him an ideal candidate for the position of IGP. Furthermore, historical precedents within the Nigeria Police Force support the President's decision, with a long-standing tradition that requires senior officers to retire when a junior officer is elevated to the position of Inspector-General. This tradition, which dates back to 1964 during the tenure of Louis Edet, Nigeria's first indigenous IGP, has been consistently upheld since 1981. Eze cites examples of officers who rose to the position from the rank of Assistant Inspector-General while their seniors stepped aside, demonstrating the culture of orderly succession and voluntary retirement within the Force. The analyst also addresses the controversy surrounding seniority within the Force, pointing out that Disu's career timeline is more impressive than some of his critics. As of 2013, both Frank Mba and Disu held the rank of Chief Superintendent of Police, but Disu ranked significantly higher on the staff list. Eze cautions against attempts to politicise or ethnicise the issue, warning that the current criticism of Disu's appointment is largely driven by vested interests. In conclusion, the appointment of Olatunji Rilwan Disu as Nigeria's 23rd indigenous police chief is a well-thought-out decision that prioritises merit, experience, and operational excellence. As Nigeria continues to grapple with evolving security challenges, the Presidency is justified in prioritising a proven operational commander like Disu. By upholding the tradition of meritocracy within the Nigeria Police Force, President Tinubu's decision reflects his commitment to ensuring that the country's security apparatus is led by the most capable and qualified individuals.