AIG Gumel Punished for Criticizing Fubara’s Suspension, Transferred to Less Coveted Post
The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has reassigned Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) Usaini Gumel from his position as the head of Zone 7, Abuja, to a less prestigious role in Community Policing, Research, and Planning—reportedly as punishment for criticizing the recent suspension of Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara.
According to Daily Nigerian, the disciplinary transfer followed AIG Gumel’s alleged informal comment labeling the March 18 declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State—and the six-month suspension of Governor Fubara, his deputy, and all members of the state assembly—as “unconstitutional.”
Sources within the police command told Daily Nigerian that Mr. Gumel expressed his opinion during a private discussion with colleagues. “The IG was swift. Gumel allegedly made the remark on March 29, 2025, and on the same day, the IG ordered the Force Secretary to transfer him to Community Policing. The official wireless signal was issued the following day,” an insider revealed.
The incident reportedly stemmed from a breach of trust, as one of the officers present during the conversation allegedly reported Mr. Gumel’s remarks to the police hierarchy. Despite the seriousness of the fallout, Gumel was neither formally queried nor given the opportunity to respond before the decision was executed.
AIG Gumel, who only assumed duty at Zone 7 on February 19, 2025, was swiftly replaced by AIG Mobolaji Victor Olaiya, according to a police signal dated March 30, 2025, with reference number: TH.5361/FS/FHQ/ABJ/SUB.5/314.
The reassignment is widely viewed within police circles as a punitive measure. While Zone 7—which covers the Federal Capital Territory and Niger State—is considered a strategic and “lucrative” post, the Community Policing, Research, and Planning department is perceived as a “punitive beat” for officers who fall out of favor with the police leadership.
As of press time, Force Public Relations Officer Muyiwa Adejobi had not responded to inquiries regarding the transfer.
Daily Nigerian
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