The recent mutiny against CP Ibadin (rtd), the head of the Edo State Security Corps appointed by Governor Okpebholo, is not just an act of insubordination but a calculated assault on the security architecture of Edo State. This troubling event represents a breach of discipline, a betrayal of public trust, and a dangerous precedent with far-reaching implications for the peace, stability, and governance of the state.
A Betrayal of Public Trust and Security Mandate
The Edo State Security Corps was established to complement the efforts of conventional security agencies, ensuring the safety of lives and property across the state. Its mandate is clear—serve the people, maintain law and order, and operate with professionalism, integrity, and loyalty to the state, not to personal or political interests.
The mutiny against CP Ibadin (rtd), a retired but highly respected Commissioner of Police with vast experience in security management, is a gross misdeed. It undermines the authority of leadership within the corps, erodes the chain of command, and weakens the operational integrity needed for effective security delivery. This act of defiance sends a dangerous message that security operatives can disregard lawful authority without consequence, thereby destabilizing the very framework designed to protect the people.
The Likely Perpetrators and Their Sinister Motives
While the mutiny may seem like an isolated incident, it is likely fueled by individuals or groups with hidden agendas. The orchestration of such a coordinated act suggests the involvement of:
1. Political Power Brokers: Certain political figures may view CP Ibadin’s leadership as an obstacle to their interests, particularly if he resists being manipulated for political gain. These individuals often seek to control security outfits to advance their ambitions, especially as elections approach or political tensions rise.
2. Corrupt Elements Within the Corps: Some officers within the Edo State Security Corps may have been compromised by financial incentives or promises of power. Their grievances could be manufactured to justify rebellion against a leader committed to discipline and accountability.
3. Criminal Syndicates: Organized crime thrives in environments where security systems are compromised. Cult groups, kidnappers, drug traffickers, and other criminal networks may view CP Ibadin’s strict policies as a threat to their operations, prompting them to sow discord within the corps to weaken its effectiveness.
The ultimate goal of these actors is clear: to destabilize the security apparatus, create an environment of chaos, and manipulate the system for political, economic, or criminal advantages.
The Dangers of Politicizing Security
Security is the bedrock of any progressive society. It transcends political affiliations, ethnic sentiments, and personal ambitions. The moment security becomes a pawn in political games, the consequences are severe and far-reaching:
1. Erosion of Public Confidence: When security agencies are perceived as tools for political oppression rather than protectors of public safety, citizens lose trust in the system. This can lead to civil disobedience, social unrest, and even vigilantism.
2. Increased Insecurity: Politicized security outfits are distracted from their core duties, focusing instead on serving the interests of political godfathers. This creates gaps that criminal elements are quick to exploit, resulting in a surge in crime, violence, and lawlessness.
3. Threat to Democratic Stability: In a democracy, the neutrality of security forces is essential for free and fair elections, peaceful protests, and the protection of civil liberties. When security becomes politicized, democracy itself is undermined, paving the way for voter intimidation, election violence, and rigging.
4. Demoralization of Security Personnel: Officers who remain committed to professionalism, like CP Ibadin (rtd), become targets of smear campaigns, intimidation, and even physical threats. This demoralizes not just the affected individuals but the entire security apparatus, discouraging others from upholding ethical standards.
What This Spells for Edo State
The mutiny against CP Ibadin (rtd) is a glaring red flag for Edo State. It signals a dangerous trend where loyalty to the people and the state is being eroded by selfish interests. If left unchecked, this situation could:
Destabilize the fragile peace that has been maintained through hard work and sacrifice.
Embolden criminal elements who thrive in environments where security agencies are divided and weakened.
Polarize the state along political lines, making security agencies tools of partisan warfare rather than guardians of public safety.
Undermine economic growth, as investors shy away from regions plagued by insecurity and political instability.
A Call to Action
The people of Edo State must rise above partisan politics to condemn this mutiny in the strongest possible terms. Civil society organizations, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and well-meaning citizens must demand accountability and insist that security remains apolitical, professional, and dedicated to the welfare of all.
Governor Okpebholo, as the chief security officer of the state, must ensure that those behind this act of sabotage are identified, investigated, and brought to justice. The Federal Government should also intervene, not to politicize the matter further, but to reinforce the principle that security personnel, active or retired, deserve respect, support, and protection when performing their lawful duties.
Security is not a political trophy; it is a sacred trust. Edo State deserves better. CP Ibadin (rtd) deserves the support necessary to fulfill his mandate without fear, intimidation, or political interference. Most importantly, the people of Edo deserve to live in peace, free from the shadows of manipulation and insecurity.
Gatekeepers News is not liable for opinions expressed in this article, they’re strictly the writer’s
