The Ondo State Police Command has dismissed a report by Sahara Reporters alleging that Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) were instructed to contribute ₦39,000 each for the deployment of personnel to Lagos ahead of the upcoming local government elections.
In a statement released on Thursday, the Command described the allegation as “false, baseless, and intentionally misleading,” aimed at tarnishing the image of the police.
The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Funmilayo Olayinka Olushola, clarified that no such directive was ever issued and that no officer was compelled to make any financial contributions.
She explained that the deployment of officers from nearby states was in line with orders from the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to ensure sufficient security coverage during the elections.
“Inter-command support and collaboration are standard procedures within the Nigeria Police Force,” the statement read. “This reflects the IGP’s commitment to a transparent, accountable, and citizen-focused police system that upholds the rule of law.”
The Command further stated that proper arrangements had been made to support the deployed officers, including logistics and welfare provisions, and confirmed that officers had begun arriving at their assigned locations without having to cover any personal costs.
Condemning the publication, the police spokesperson accused the platform of spreading misinformation and lacking understanding of police operational procedures.
“The public is urged to disregard the report in its entirety.
The Ondo State Police Command remains dedicated to professionalism, transparency, and building public trust in all its operations,” the statement concluded.