Ahead of the November 11, 2023 gubernatorial election in Imo State, the Inspector General of Police, Olukayode Egbetokun has ordered the immediate redeployment of the state Commissioner of Police, Mohammed Barde, to the Force Headquarters in Abuja.
This was revealed in a statement issued by the Police Public relations officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, on Saturday.
The statement reads, “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 IG 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.”
The IGP made the development known on Sunday night during a Channels Television program titled” “Peoples Town Hall On Election Security,” which was monitored by our correspondent.
In his words, “We are aware that there are allegations against the Commissioner of Police in Imo. Before the elections, we’re changing the CP. This is not to say the CP has been found guilty. But for neutrality's sake, we are changing the Commissioner of Police in Imo State.”
Ajaero was attacked in Owerri, on Wednesday, while mobilizing workers for protest over their unpaid salaries.
Barde was accused of being complicit in the attack on the NLC President.
