The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has redeployed Assistant Inspector General of Police Usaini Gumel from his position as head of Zone 7, Abuja, to the department of Community Policing, Research and Planning.
The transfer reportedly followed remarks
by Gumel allegedly made about recent political developments in Rivers State, including the suspension of Governor Sim Fubara and the declaration of a state of emergency, which he was said to have described as unconstitutional.
AFRIPOST had reported that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in a nationwide address on March 18, announced a state of emergency in Rivers State and suspended the governor, his deputy, and all members of the state assembly for a period of six months.
According to information from the Daily Nigerian, Gumel had expressed his thoughts on the issue during an informal discussion in his office.
Sources claimed that one of his colleagues present during the conversation disclosed his comments to higher authorities, leading to swift action by the police leadership.
Gumel had only recently taken over Zone 7 on February 19.
It was gathered that he was neither questioned nor asked to clarify his alleged comments before his redeployment.
An insider revealed to Intelregion that the transfer order came immediately after the remarks were made on March 29, 2025, and was followed by an official wireless signal the next day.
The position at Zone 7, which covers the Federal Capital Territory and Niger State, is regarded as both strategic and influential within the police structure. By contrast, the new assignment in Community Policing is perceived among officers as a less desirable posting.
Gumel was swiftly replaced by AIG Mobolaji Victor Olaiya, as indicated in a signal dated March 30, 2025, with reference number TH.5361/FS/FHQ/ABJ/SUB.5/314.
When approached for comments, the Force Public Relations Officer, Muyiwa Adejobi, did not respond to inquiries on the matter.
Recall that AFRIPOST had yesterday reported that a human rights activist, Deji Adeyanju, applauded Gumel on his stance on the emergency rule in Rivers.
