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The Ondo State Police Command has strongly denied allegations suggesting that Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) were directed to contribute the sum of ₦39,000 each for the deployment of personnel to Lagos State ahead of the forthcoming local government elections.
In a statement released on Friday, July 11, in Akure, the state capital, the Command’s spokesperson, Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Olushola Ayanlade, described the reports circulating in some sections of the media as “completely false, baseless, and a calculated attempt to mislead the public and tarnish the image of the Command.”
According to DSP Ayanlade, there was no such directive issued mandating officers to make any financial contribution towards the deployment exercise.
“The report is misleading. At no point were officers compelled to make any form of monetary payment. No such instruction ever emanated from the leadership of the Command,” he clarified.
Ayanlade explained that the deployment of police personnel from neighbouring commands, including Ondo, was in line with a directive from the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) aimed at reinforcing security operations before, during, and after the local government elections in Lagos.
He emphasized that the collaboration between commands is a standard operating procedure within the Nigeria Police Force.
“The deployment is a routine measure to ensure adequate security coverage during major events such as elections. It reflects the IGP’s commitment to a transparent, accountable, people-centered, and law-abiding police service,” he said.
The Command further stressed that it had already put in place all necessary logistical and welfare arrangements to facilitate the smooth movement and accommodation of deployed personnel.
Ayanlade noted that a significant number of officers from the state had already arrived at their designated posts in Lagos without incurring any personal financial cost.
“The Ondo State Command, in full compliance with the IGP’s directive, ensured that all deployed officers were adequately provided for. There was no instance where any officer bore the cost of their deployment,” he affirmed.
Reacting to the source of the allegation, Ayanlade criticised the author of the report for what he termed a lack of understanding of police operational procedures.
“It is unfortunate that the individual behind this report continues to spread misinformation, ignoring the facts in favour of sensationalism. Such false and unprofessional claims are intended only to mislead the public and undermine the integrity of the police,” he remarked.
In conclusion, DSP Ayanlade urged the public to disregard the false report in its entirety. He reaffirmed the Ondo State Command’s dedication to upholding professionalism, transparency, and public trust in the performance of its duties.
“The Nigeria Police remains committed to maintaining high ethical standards and ensuring the safety and confidence of all citizens,” he stated.