Security expert backs IGP’s redeployment of over 600 cops from Zone 2
A security expert, Busayo Mogaji, has backed the redeployment of more than 600 police personnel from the Zone 2 Police Command Headquarters in Onikan, describing the move as necessary to
A security expert, Busayo Mogaji, has backed the redeployment of more than 600 police personnel from the Zone 2 Police Command Headquarters in Onikan, describing the move as necessary to address manpower imbalances across formations nationwide.
The Inspector General of Police (IGP) Olatunji Disu last week ordered the immediate posting out of police officers who have overstayed their tour of duty at the zonal headquarters, as well as other units and commands, to boost policing at the community levels.
But some of the affected officers, who have always evaded redeployment, leaked the information to online media, presenting narratives that made it appear as if they were being victimized.
The issue has since divided conversations across social media platforms, with many Nigerians asking why they were opposed to routine administrative postings and whether adequate provisions have been made to cover their logistics and welfare.
In a post shared via WhatsApp supporting the redeployment, Mogaji noted that the Zone 2 command headquarters had accumulated personnel beyond its operational requirements, while several divisional and community commands across the country remained understaffed.
Sources indicated that about 855 Special Police Officers (SPOs) were, at one time, attached to the Zone 2 headquarters, a situation believed to have reduced police visibility in underserved areas and increased pressure on frontline officers elsewhere.
Mogaji said effective policing depended on the visibility and accessibility of officers within communities, noting that concentrating personnel in administrative hubs weakens service delivery.
He added that the redistribution of officers was not punitive but necessary to restore operational balance and improve efficiency across commands.
Under the Nigeria Police Act, the IGP is empowered to approve postings and redeployments to strengthen policing nationwide.
The redeployment is expected to boost manpower in affected formations and support security operations ahead of anticipated national activities, including the general elections.
