The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has reportedly redeployed Assistant Inspector General (AIG) Usaini Gumel—formerly in charge of Zone 7, Abuja—to the Community Policing, Research and Planning Department.
This transfer allegedly followed Gumel’s criticism of the recent declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State.
Sources familiar with the matter claim that AIG Gumel questioned the constitutionality of President Bola Tinubu’s actions, particularly the reported suspension of Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and members of the state House of Assembly. Gumel is said to have made the comments informally during a private discussion with colleagues in his office.
However, one of those present allegedly reported the comments to the IGP’s office, prompting swift action from police leadership. According to a report by Daily Nigerian, Gumel’s transfer was processed on the same day—March 29, 2025—and a formal wireless signal confirming the reassignment was issued the following day.
An insider source disclosed, “The IGP did not hesitate. Gumel made the remark on March 29, and by that evening, the Force Secretary had received orders to reassign him. By March 30, the transfer was official.”
The report also noted that AIG Mobolaji Victor Olaiya has since replaced Gumel as the new head of Zone 7, which covers both the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and Niger State.
Zone 7 is widely regarded within the police force as a strategic and influential posting, often associated with higher visibility and influence. In contrast, the Community Policing, Research and Planning department is reportedly perceived by some officers as a less favorable, and even punitive, assignment.
At the time of this report, Force Public Relations Officer CSP Olumuyiwa Adejobi had not responded to a message seeking clarification, and calls to his phone line were unsuccessful.
This development comes amid growing political tension in Rivers State, where concerns about constitutional violations and executive overreach continue to stir national debate.
