Ezinnihitte Mbaise Police Division has been thrown into controversy following allegations that some officers, in collaboration with the Divisional Crime Officer (DCO), conspired to undermine the Divisional Police Officer (DPO).
According to reports, the dispute began after the DPO disciplined an inspector who allegedly disobeyed a directive issued by the Commissioner of Police. The disciplinary action, sources claim, angered the inspector and some rank-and-file officers, who allegedly joined forces with the DCO to work secretly against the DPO.
Matters reportedly escalated when ASP Patrick Okon allegedly detained a woman together with her four-year-old child—an action described as a violation of police regulations—while the DPO was away on official duty in Owerri. The move, insiders allege, was designed to create the impression that the hardworking DPO, who is credited with drastically reducing crime in the local government, was incapable of properly managing the station.
The alleged conspiracy, carried out behind the DPO’s back, has raised concerns about discipline and internal order within the division. Observers warn that such internal conflicts could weaken operational efficiency and erode public confidence in policing in Ezinnihitte Mbaise.
At press time, police authorities were yet to issue an official statement on the matter.
