The Commissioner of Police in Ondo State, Wilfred Afolabi, has ordered the immediate redeployment of the Divisional Police Officer in charge of Igbara-Oke Division, Ganiyu Dauda, following allegations of extortion leveled against him by residents.
According to a statement issued on Sunday by the state police command’s spokesperson, DSP Olushola Ayanlade, the move became necessary after a viral video surfaced showing angry residents confronting the DPO and accusing him of extortion.
“The Commissioner of Police, CP Wilfred Afolabi, has directed that the DPO be removed from his post to allow for an impartial and thorough investigation into the matter,” Ayanlade said.
The controversy erupted after residents of Igbara-Oke in Ifedore Local Government Area staged a protest on Friday, accusing the DPO of consistently demanding bribes and engaging in other unethical practices. The demonstrators, wielding leaves and chanting slogans, blocked the community’s main road in protest.
“The incident that led to the protest arose from a disagreement between the DPO and certain individuals in the community,” Ayanlade explained. “Preliminary investigations suggest tensions had been brewing, but the situation was diffused after the intervention of the Ifedore Local Government Chairman.”
The police spokesman further noted that while the matter had been “amicably resolved,” the redeployment of the DPO was essential to ensure a fair investigation and maintain public trust in the force.
“In line with our internal protocol and commitment to accountability, the officer has been posted out of the division pending the outcome of the investigation,” he said, urging the public to remain calm and trust the process.
The police command reiterated its commitment to transparency, discipline, and maintaining a strong relationship with the communities it serves.
