The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered the redeployment of the Imo State Commissioner of Police, Mohammed Barde, to the Force Headquarters. This move comes amid allegations of partisanship against the commissioner.

In a statement made by the IGP on a Channels Television programme themed “Peoples Town Hall On Election Security,” on Sunday, he stated, “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.”

The decision to reassign the CP follows allegations of partisanship and other issues raised by organized labor, particularly after an attack on Joe Ajaero, the president of the nation’s organized labor, in Imo State.

The IGP emphasized the importance of providing a secure environment for all stakeholders, political parties, candidates, and citizens during the upcoming gubernatorial election in Imo State on November 11, 2023.

He called on everyone to cooperate with the police and other security agencies, adhere to the law, and uphold democratic principles for a smooth and successful election.