The Edo State Commissioner of Police, Nemi Iwo, has debunked allegations that his deployment to the state was influenced by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike.

Iwo described the claims as “baseless and mischievous”.

The police commissioner, in a statement issued by the Edo State Police Public Relations Officer, Moses Yamu, on Monday, September 16, 2024, said his deployment was a routine administrative procedure within the Police Force.

He said: “It’s laughable to suggest that the deployment was influenced by the FCT Minister. I don’t have any personal or professional ties with him.

“Associating with the FCT Minister is a thing of pride, but it is pertinent to clear the air that our paths have never crossed in any way.

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“The CP is not an electoral umpire as such, I cannot determine the outcome of an election as more senior officers, including two DIGs, AIGs, CPs, and other senior officers have been deployed to supervise the conduct of Edo election.

“Moreso, the innovations adopted by the INEC does not accrue any powers or privileges to the Police to influence the outcome of any election.

“On this note, the command condemns this mischievous news and wish to urge the good people of Edo State to disregard the unfounded story.”

Iwo further reassured the public of the command’s commitment to neutrality and professionalism in the September 21 governorship election in Edo State.

Iwo, until his deployment to Edo State in August 2024, was the Commissioner of Police in charge Intelligence, Force Intelligence Department, Force Headquarters in Abuja.

The police commissioner hailed from Okrika Local Government Area of Rivers State.

The Star