The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has yielded to mounting pressure and made a resolute commitment to redeploy the Commissioner of Police (CP) in Imo State, Mohammed Barde, ahead of the forthcoming gubernatorial elections scheduled for Saturday.
The decision to redeploy Barde comes after the CP was accused of partisanship by the Labour Party and other influential stakeholders. Furthermore, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) clamored for the removal of the police chief following an attack on its president, Joe Ajaero, in Owerri on Wednesday.
Addressing the calls for the CP’s redeployment, IGP Egbetokun firmly stated on Sunday night during a Channels Television programme that the Nigeria Police Force has already finalized plans for the CP’s relocation.
Acknowledging the allegations against the Imo CP, Egbetokun emphasized, “We are cognizant of the accusations levelled against the Commissioner of Police in Imo. Prior to the elections, we are replacing the CP.”
He further clarified, “This does not imply that the CP has been found guilty. However, in the interest of fairness, we are effecting the transfer of the Commissioner of Police in Imo State.”
The decision to redeploy the Imo CP demonstrates the IGP’s commitment to upholding the principles of neutrality and ensuring a level playing field for all stakeholders involved in the electoral process. With this move, the Nigeria Police Force aims to bolster public confidence and preserve the integrity of the gubernatorial elections in Imo State.
