Wilfred Olutokunbo Afolabi, the Commissioner of Police in Ondo State, has been redeployed to the Force Headquarters in Abuja by the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun. The redeployment, which took place last week, comes just seven months after Afolabi was posted to the state as its 45th police commissioner.

 

Though the police have not publicly stated the reason for the sudden move, sources suggest it may be linked to the Democracy Day protest led by activist Omoyele Sowore in Akure on June 12. Afolabi is expected to take up a new role overseeing Administration in the Department of Training and Development.

 

Confirming the development, Ondo Police spokesperson Ayanlade Olayinka announced that CP Adebowale Lawal has now assumed command in the state. “We want you to bear with us, and we shall be unveiling the new CP soon,” Olayinka said.

 

The redeployment has sparked internal reactions, with several officers expressing disappointment. Many described Afolabi as a dedicated and reform-driven leader who improved intelligence gathering and crime-fighting in the state. Some viewed the move as politically motivated, saying the former CP was being unfairly targeted despite his efforts.