Transfer Controversy: Senior Police Officer’s Secret Lobbying to Return to Anambra Exposed

By Our Correspondent

A plot by a senior police officer, now a Commissioner of Police, to lobby for redeployment back to Anambra State has been uncovered by concerned citizens.
The group alleged that during the officer’s previous tenure in the state, his conduct was characterised by selective enforcement of the law and other actions that reportedly generated controversy.
The alleged lobbying effort was uncovered by a coalition of concerned citizens and residents of Anambra State. The group expressed anxiety over what it described as credible reports that the transferred senior officer was making moves to secure a return posting to the state.
In a communiqué issued on Wednesday in Awka and signed by its coordinator, Mr. Ezeudo Monday, the coalition claimed that the officer currently serving at the rank of Commissioner of Police, whose identity was withheld,had been reaching out to influential individuals and power brokers to facilitate his redeployment.
According to the group, the development has generated widespread concern among residents, civil society organisations, community leaders, and other stakeholders who value peace, accountability, and professionalism in security management.
The communiqué stated that the concerns stem from allegations that trailed the officer’s previous deployment in the state.
The coalition alleged that during his earlier tenure, there were persistent complaints from members of the public relating to abuse of power, selective enforcement of the law, and undue interference in civil matters.
The statement further claimed that such actions reportedly undermined public trust and weakened confidence in the state’s security architecture at the time.
Although the allegations have not been proven, the coalition said they created what it described as “a climate of suspicion and division,” which the state is only gradually overcoming.
The group also expressed fears that the officer’s return could erode recent gains recorded in collaboration between security agencies and local communities.
It stated:“Anambra State has, in recent times, witnessed improved cooperation between citizens and law enforcement agencies. This fragile stability depends heavily on public confidence, professionalism, and transparency.
The return of any officer whose previous deployment generated controversy risks undermining these gains.”
The coalition warned that such a move could rekindle distrust between residents and security agencies, weaken intelligence gathering, and embolden criminal networks.
It further cautioned that the development might trigger avoidable tension and protests in communities that feel aggrieved by past experiences.
The group argued that redeploying an officer amid unresolved controversy could send the wrong signal about accountability and ethical standards within security institutions.
It called on the Nigeria Police Force, the Police Service Commission, and the Ministry of Police Affairs to consider the broader security implications before making any decision.
The coalition urged the authorities to prioritise officers with proven records of integrity, professionalism, and community engagement in postings to the state.
It also appealed to political leaders, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and civil society organisations to remain vigilant and support efforts aimed at strengthening security without compromising public trust.
The group stressed that its position was not driven by personal or political motives but by the need to safeguard peace and stability in the state.
It reassured residents of its commitment to lawful and constructive engagement with relevant authorities.
It was further gathered that the development may be linked to ongoing jostling over the anticipated replacement of the current Commissioner of Police, who is expected to retire latter this year.