Ajaero: IGP bows to pressure, redeploys Imo state police commissioner

With few days to the governorship election in Imo, Bayelsa and Kogi state, the Inspector-General of Police, (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun has redeployed commissioner of police in Imo, Mohammed Barde.

Recall that the organized labour and many civil society organisations had called for the removal of the commissioner over an assault on president of the Nigeria Labour Congress, (NLC) Joe Ajaero.

In a statement by the force PRO, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the redeployment of the CP is to ensure neutrality in the upcoming election.

The IGP also said the police have taken care of all the threats in the three states.

According to him, mopping up of arms will be periodical, before, during and after the polls.

Egbetokun said the police will respond appropriately to vote buying and all electoral offences with respect to the provisions of the electoral laws. Anybody found engaging in vote buying will be prosecuted appropriately, he said, adding that the allowances of policemen will be paid as and when due.

Read full statement:

GUBER ELECTION: IGP REDEPLOYS CP IMO.
Reaffirms Neutrality

In a pivotal development ahead of the upcoming gubernatorial election in Imo state on 11th November, 2023, the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, has ordered the redeployment of the Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Mohammed Barde to the Force Headquarters on special duty.

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The IGP’s decision to reshuffle the CP underscores the Police Force’s unwavering dedication to upholding the rule of law and maintaining strict neutrality throughout the electoral proceedings. This redeployment is not an indictment on the affected officer but is rather part of a broader strategy aimed at bolstering security measures, promoting transparency, and upholding the integrity of the electoral security management.

The IGP is resolute in ensuring that a secure environment is provided for all stakeholders, political parties, candidates, and citizens to participate in the electoral process. He urges all and sundry to cooperate with the Police and other security agencies and adhere to the law in order to ensure a smooth and successful election while maintaining the principles of democracy.

ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, mnipr, mipra, FCAI,
Force Public Relations Officer,
Force Headquarters,
Abuja