The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered the transfer of Assistant Inspector General of Police, Usaini Gumel, from Zone 7 Headquarters in Abuja to the Department of Community Policing, Research, and Planning.
The move reportedly followed comments Gumel allegedly made concerning the suspension of Rivers State Governor Sim Fubara and the declaration of a state of emergency in the state.
It was gathered that Gumel expressed his opinion informally during a private discussion in his office, where he reportedly described the federal government’s actions as unconstitutional.
A colleague present during the conversation is said to have reported the remarks to the police high command.
On March 18, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu announced the suspension of Governor Fubara, his deputy, and all state lawmakers for six months while declaring a state of emergency in Rivers State.
Gumel’s comments were reportedly made on March 29, and the IGP wasted no time in issuing a transfer order the same day. A wireless signal confirming the redeployment followed on March 30, 2025.
Gumel, who only resumed duties at Zone 7 on February 19, was not given a formal query or an opportunity to respond to the allegations before being reassigned.
He has now been replaced by AIG Mobolaji Victor Olaiya, according to a posting referenced as TH.5361/FS/FHQ/ABJ/SUB.5/314.
Zone 7, which covers the Federal Capital Territory and Niger State, is widely considered a key and prestigious posting within the Nigeria Police Force.
In contrast, the Community Policing, Research, and Planning department is seen as less influential and, in some circles, a form of disciplinary posting for senior officers.
Attempts to get an official response from the Force Public Relations Officer, Muyiwa Adejobi, were unsuccessful as he did not respond to inquiries on the matter.