Ahead of next Saturday’s off-season elections in Imo State, Inspector-General of Police Olukayode Egbetokun has redeployed the Imo State Commissioner of Police, Mohammed Barde.
The CP had been accused of partisanship and complicity over the abduction and assault of the President of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Joe Ajaero.
Egbetokun took the step after the NLC, the Trade Union Congress (TUC), the Labour Party (CP), and Civil Society Organisations, recently called for Barde’s redeployment, over accusations he was loyal to the incumbent Governor of the state and might likely work in his favour.
A statement, titled, “GUBER ELECTION: IGP REDEPLOYS CP IMO,” released by the Force spokesperson, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, announcing Barde’s redeployment, reads:
“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.
“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.”