The Nigeria Police Force has relieved Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Benjamin Hundeyin of his duties as Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO) in a shake-up at the Force Headquarters.
Hundeyin has been replaced by Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Anthony Okon Placid, who will now serve as the force’s new spokesperson, police sources told SaharaReporters.
“Hundeyin has been replaced by Okon Placid; the official announcement will be made later,” a source said.
As part of the changes, the police leadership has also created a new unit, the New Media Office, aimed at strengthening the force’s digital communication and engagement. Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Ali Giwa has been appointed to lead the newly established office.
This move is part of ongoing restructuring within the Nigeria Police Force to improve communication, media relations, and public engagement.
On Friday, SaharaReporters noted that Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Disu had yet to officially appoint a substantive FPRO following Hundeyin’s removal. Hundeyin had served in the role for just six months, having assumed office in September 2025. His removal came shortly after Disu’s appointment as the 23rd Inspector-General by President Bola Tinubu, amid broader internal restructuring within the force.
Earlier reports had suggested that CSP Aliyu Giwa might become the next Force PRO. However, sources familiar with the situation told SaharaReporters that Giwa’s role is limited to managing the police’s social media operations, not serving as the official spokesperson.
According to sources, attempts were reportedly being made to pressure the Inspector-General into confirming Giwa for the role, with some bloggers allegedly mobilized to influence the decision.
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“The Police Force PRO has not been appointed yet. Aliyu Giwa is limited to social media operations, and a DCP will be appointed to the FPRO position,” a top police source explained. “Because of Giwa’s current position, he is close to bloggers and appears to be using them to push for his appointment. That’s why you see these reports online.”
Hundeyin’s removal follows broader leadership adjustments within the police under Disu. Before his appointment as Force PRO, Hundeyin served as the spokesperson for the Lagos State Police Command.
