Police Appoint DCP Placid as New Force PRO

ABUJA – The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has approved the appointment of Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Anthony Okon Placid as the new Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO) of the Nigeria Police Force. This move replaces Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Benjamin Hundeyin, who served in the role for less than a year and announced the change himself in an official statement on Sunday.

The reshuffle, confirmed by sources at the police headquarters in Abuja, puts to rest weeks of media speculation that began with unconfirmed reports of Hundeyin’s removal around early March. Hundeyin, known for his active social media engagement and clear communication during his tenure, steps aside as Placid, a seasoned officer with extensive experience, takes over.

DCP Placid brings a robust background to the role, having enlisted as a Cadet Assistant Superintendent of Police in 1996 and rising through key positions including Police Public Relations Officer in Adamawa State, Chief of Training for the African Union Mission in Sudan, and roles in United Nations peacekeeping in Darfur. His credentials include a Bachelor of Law from the National Open University of Nigeria, certifications in police studies, human rights, and international humanitarian law, as well as participation in advanced leadership courses.​

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Clarifying earlier confusion, Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Aliyu Giwa—who was speculated as a potential FPRO replacement due to his prior media roles and cybersecurity expertise—has not been named to the top spokesperson position. Instead, Giwa, a former Assistant Force PRO and Lagos State deputy PPRO, has been appointed to head the newly created Force New Media Office, signaling the police’s push towards enhanced digital communication strategies.

This strategic appointment under IGP Disu reflects ongoing efforts to strengthen the Force’s public engagement amid evolving media landscapes. Police spokespersons play a critical role in disseminating information, countering misinformation, and building public trust, especially in Nigeria’s dynamic security environment.