In a decisive move to address growing concerns of police misconduct, the Commissioner of Police in Ondo State, Wilfred Afolabi, has ordered the immediate redeployment of the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in charge of the Igbara-Oke Division, Ganiyu Dauda, following allegations of extortion leveled against him by members of the local community.
The action, taken amid public outrage and circulating videos on social media, reflects the Nigeria Police Force’s renewed commitment to transparency, public trust, and ethical policing, especially in light of persistent calls for reform across the country.
The controversy erupted on Friday, April 11, 2025, when angry residents of Igbara-Oke in Ifedore Local Government Area staged a protest against the embattled DPO. Armed with placards and green leaves, the protesters blocked the major road leading into the town, demanding Dauda’s removal and a thorough investigation into his alleged abuse of power.
Several residents claimed the DPO was notorious for arbitrary arrests and demanding financial inducement before granting bail, a practice that contravenes the Police Act and public service ethics. Videos of the protest quickly went viral, capturing moments when residents directly accused the officer of extortion during a heated face-off.
In response to the growing tension and widespread criticism, the command’s spokesperson, DSP Olushola Ayanlade, issued an official statement on Sunday in Akure. He confirmed that the Commissioner of Police had taken immediate action to restore order and trust in the local police structure.
“In response to the video and the serious nature of the allegations, the Commissioner of Police, Wilfred Afolabi, has ordered an immediate and thorough investigation into the incident,” Ayanlade stated.
He revealed that preliminary findings pointed to a breakdown in communication and a disagreement between the DPO and some members of the community. However, to ensure an impartial inquiry, the DPO has been redeployed pending the outcome of the investigation.
The situation was reportedly calmed by the timely intervention of the Ifedore Local Government Chairman, who facilitated a round-table dialogue between community leaders and police authorities. The intervention helped to de-escalate tensions and open a channel for grievance resolution.
While the matter appears temporarily resolved on the surface, the Commissioner stressed that the redeployment is not the end of the process but a step toward ensuring justice and maintaining law and order.
The Ondo State Police Command has reiterated its commitment to upholding accountability and regaining public trust. DSP Ayanlade appealed to residents to remain calm and allow due process to take its course.
“The police do not take allegations of misconduct lightly. Our integrity and relationship with the communities we serve are paramount,” he said.
The case reflects a broader concern within the Nigerian policing system, where allegations of corruption, brutality, and human rights violations have become recurring issues. Public distrust in law enforcement reached a boiling point in 2020 during the #EndSARS protests, prompting the federal government to promise sweeping police reforms.
Though efforts have been made to restructure the force and retrain officers, community-level complaints continue to surface. Analysts believe this case, if handled transparently, could serve as a test case for the state command in demonstrating a culture of accountability.
Human rights activists and civil society groups in Ondo State have welcomed the Commissioner’s swift response, but many say it must be backed by real action.
Speaking with The ireport247new.com, Kunle Aladesuyi, a legal practitioner and member of the Civil Rights Forum, said, “Redeployment alone is not justice. If the DPO is found guilty, he must face internal disciplinary procedures or even prosecution. This is the only way to deter other officers who abuse their powers.”
Aladesuyi further called for regular community engagement forums between the police and residents to bridge the gap of mistrust and reduce the likelihood of similar confrontations in the future.
As the investigation unfolds, all eyes remain on the Ondo State Police Command to see how transparently and effectively the matter will be resolved. The redeployment of DPO Dauda may bring short-term calm, but long-term trust can only be earned through sustained institutional accountability, community dialogue, and fair disciplinary measures where necessary.
For now, the people of Igbara-Oke are watching and waiting — hopeful that justice will be done and that their voices will lead to lasting change within the ranks of the Nigeria Police Force.