Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo has offered a rare and deeply personal account of his time under house arrest, revealing how the current Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Disu played a critical role in safeguarding his life during that difficult period.
Speaking at a book launch authored by former Inspector-General of Police Sunday Ehindero, Obasanjo reflected on the uncertainty and vulnerability he faced while under house arrest, a moment in Nigeria’s political history marked by tension and personal risk.
In his remarks, the elder statesman expressed profound gratitude to Disu, recalling the young officer’s sense of duty and quiet commitment at a time when such qualities could have easily been overshadowed by fear or indifference.
“I need to thank our current IGP. I have to, in a special way, acknowledge you because maybe the reason I’m alive today is because you are one of those who kept me alive when I was under house arrest,” Obasanjo stated.
The former president’s testimony not only sheds light on a lesser-known chapter of his life but also underscores the human side of policing—where individual acts of integrity can have far-reaching consequences.
Obasanjo further highlighted that Disu’s rise to the pinnacle of the Nigeria Police Force was not accidental, but rather the result of sustained professionalism, discipline, and dedication to service. According to him, such attributes are essential for rebuilding trust in law enforcement institutions and ensuring national stability.
The event, which drew notable figures from across Nigeria’s security and political landscape, served as both a celebration of Ehindero’s literary contribution and a moment of reflection on leadership, service, and the enduring impact of principled actions within public institutions.
Obasanjo’s remarks ultimately frame Disu’s journey as more than a career progression—it is a narrative of commitment under pressure, and a reminder that even in the most restrictive and uncertain circumstances, integrity can make the difference between life and death.
