In a move that has sparked outrage and concern, the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Ishola Olanrewaju Olawale, has allegedly redeployed the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Ijeshatedo, Mushin Police Division, for refusing to release criminal suspects found in possession of firearms.
According to Sahara Reporters, the now-removed DPO, identified only as Matthew, was ousted shortly after a high-profile caller—believed to be a powerful politician—demanded the release of the suspects.
A police insider revealed that three suspects were arrested on Sunday night and detained at the Ijeshatedo Police Division. However, by Monday, DPO Matthew received a call from an unknown individual who insisted on their release.
Refusing to comply without proper verification, the firm and disciplined officer demanded to know the caller’s identity and the justification for releasing armed suspects. The response? The caller abruptly ended the call, making any attempts to reconnect futile.
Hours later, an even more shocking call came—not from the mysterious politician, but from the Commissioner of Police himself, notifying DPO Matthew of his immediate removal.
The insider, familiar with the unfolding drama, disclosed that within hours of his dismissal, a new Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) was installed as the DPO. Not long after, the newly appointed officer allegedly freed the gun-wielding suspects—raising questions about the true forces at play behind the scenes.
“This happened on Monday, February 10, 2025. The former DPO was immediately ordered to report to the Lagos Police Command,” the source stated.
The informant further described the ousted DPO as a highly disciplined and no-nonsense officer—a trait that may have cost him his position.
“He stood his ground, refusing to release criminals without due process, yet it is obvious the caller was a highly influential politician who wielded enough power to have him removed,” the source lamented.
Sahara Reporters reached out to Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, for confirmation. However, in a cryptic response, Hundeyin simply stated via text that he could not answer calls.
Meanwhile, another police source disclosed that there was no official signal regarding the DPO’s removal, emphasizing that the directive came directly from the Commissioner of Police himself.
This incident raises serious concerns about political interference in law enforcement and the apparent compromise of police integrity. If officers dedicated to upholding justice can be summarily removed for refusing to bow to political pressure, what hope is there for real security and accountability?
As the dust settles, the silence from the Lagos State Police Command only fuels speculation. Who was behind the call? What interest did they have in securing the release of gun-toting suspects? And how deep does this rot go?
One thing is clear—DPO Matthew’s removal sends a chilling message to officers who dare to uphold the law.
PIONEER NEWS 