Ahead of the November 11, 2023, governorship 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.
According to a statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, on Sunday, the IG’s decision to redeploy the CP underscored the police gorce’s dedication to upholding the rule of law and maintaining strict neutrality throughout the electoral proceedings.
Adejobi said, “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 PUNCH had earlier reported that ahead of the Saturday, November 11 off-season elections, Egbetokun, had Sunday evening, promised to redeploy Barde, over alleged partisanship.
He spoke days after the Nigerian Labour Congress, the Trade Union Congress, the Labour Party, and Civil Society Organisations, called for Barde’s redeployment.
PUNCH
