Human rights lawyer Deji Adeyanju has praised Assistant Inspector General of Police, Usaini Gumel, for allegedly opposing the recent declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State.
In a statement released on Friday, Adeyanju said Gomel displayed integrity and courage by criticising the emergency rule despite the sensitive nature of his position.
“If more individuals like Gumel rise to speak out against the erosion of our democratic principles, there remains hope for a brighter future for Nigeria,” he stated.
The lawyer expressed concern over the swift action taken by Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, who transferred Gumel to the Community Policing, Research, and Planning department.
According to him, the transfer reportedly followed Gumel’s remarks about the emergency rule in Rivers and the suspension of Governor Sim Fubara.
Adeyanju stated that whereas Gumel’s comments were made informally among colleagues, a breach of trust led to his transfer.
He called on other Nigerians to be courageous and emulate Gumel.
“It is important that we collectively condemn acts of lawlessness and uphold our constitutional rights,” Adeyanju added.
