The Inspector General of Police Olukayode Egbetokun has ordered the immediate redeployment of Mohammed Barde, the Imo State Commissioner of Police ahead of the November 11 election to the Force Headquarters (FHQ) in Abuja.
This was made known by the IGP in a statement released in Abuja on Sunday night by Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the Force Public Relations Officer.
Adejobi said that the IGP’s decision to redeploy Barde is not an indictment of him but rather a component of a larger plan meant to strengthen security protocols, encourage openness, and uphold strict impartiality throughout the election process.
He said that the IGP is committed to making sure that all candidates, political parties, and citizens can participate in the election process in a safe atmosphere.
The statement read in parts, “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.”
Recall that Egbetokun had on Sunday announced the redeployment of Barde over alleged partisanship ahead of the November 11 off-season elections.
The IGP made this known on Sunday night during an appearance on Channels TV’s Peoples Townhall.
Ada Peter
