Ezinnihitte Mbaise Police Division has been engulfed in controversy following allegations of a power struggle within its ranks, implicating several officers and the Divisional Crime Officer (DCO) in a plot to undermine the Divisional Police Officer (DPO).
The dispute reportedly started after disciplinary action was taken against an inspector who defied a directive from the Commissioner of Police.
Sources reveal that the DPO’s decision to discipline the inspector did not sit well with some members of the police force.
These discontented officers are said to have allied with the DCO in a covert effort to challenge the DPO’s authority. The friction within the division has since escalated, bringing internal discord into the public eye.
One particular incident that intensified the conflict involved Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Patrick Okon, who allegedly detained a woman and her four-year-old child – a move considered a breach of police protocol.
This action reportedly took place while the DPO was away on official duty in Owerri, and insiders suggest it was meant to portray the DPO as ineffective in managing the police station.
The DPO, who has been praised for significantly reducing crime in Ezinnihitte Mbaise Local Government Area, now faces questions about the command and discipline under his leadership.
The concealed nature of the alleged conspiracy has raised serious concerns regarding the chain of command and adherence to administrative rules within the division.
Community members and law enforcement observers have expressed worry that such internal power tussles could severely impact the operational effectiveness of the police force.
They warn that ongoing disputes risk diminishing public trust in the police, which could undermine safety and security efforts in the area.
Despite the gravity of the situation, official police authorities have not yet released any statement addressing the allegations or providing clarity on how the matter will be resolved.
The unfolding drama highlights the challenges of maintaining discipline and unity within a critical arm of law enforcement.
As the Ezinnihitte Mbaise Police Division grapples with this internal crisis, stakeholders and residents alike await decisive action to restore order and ensure the continued success of crime-fighting initiatives in the community.