The Ondo State Police Command has debunked a recent report by online media platform Sahara Reporters, which alleged that Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) in the state were instructed to contribute ₦39,000 each to fund the deployment of personnel to Lagos for the upcoming Local Government elections.
Describing the report as “false, baseless, and a deliberate attempt to distort facts,” the Command stated that no such directive was ever issued, and officers were “not compelled to make any financial contribution.”
In a strongly worded press statement released on Thursday, July 10, 2025, and signed by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka Olushola, the police said:
“The attention of the Ondo State Police Command has been drawn to a misleading report… alleging that DPOs were directed to contribute ₦39,000 each. The Command categorically states that no such directive was ever issued.”
The statement explained that the deployment of officers from Ondo to Lagos was in line with a nationwide instruction from the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, aimed at ensuring tight security for the elections.
“Such inter and intra-command cooperation is standard within the Nigeria Police Force,” DSP Olushola said.
“All necessary logistical and welfare arrangements were made by the Command to ensure that no officer bears any personal financial burden.”
The Command also took aim at the author of the report, accusing him of peddling misinformation and being ignorant of police procedures.
“It is unfortunate that the author continues to wallow in ignorance… His claims are false, unfounded, and unprofessional, aimed only at misleading the public and discrediting the Command’s integrity.”
While urging the public to disregard the publication, the Command reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism and transparency.
“The Ondo State Police Command remains committed to upholding public trust in the discharge of its duties,” the PPRO added.
