The Nigerian Police authorities have named a new Commissioner of Police for the Abia State Command, amid growing tension in the state over the activities of the Indigenous People of Biafra and the presence of troops in the state.

CP Anthony Michael Ogbizi assumed duties at his new post today, taking over from Adeleye Oyebade who has been redeployed as the Commissioner of Police, Railway Command in Lagos State.

Prior to his posting, Ogbizi who is from Cross River State was the Commissioner of Police in charge of the Railway Command, Lagos State.

The change of guard was confirmed in a statement by the DSP Geoffrey Ogbonna, Police Public Relations Officer, Abia State Command.

No reason has been given for the change, but it comes amid rising security concerns in the state.

There has been increased tension in the state since Sunday when IPOB members clashed with troops of the Nigerian Army near the home of IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu.

While the military said the troops were parading the streets in a show of force when they were attacked by IPOB members, Kanu told journalists that the troops had tried to force their way into his residence.

Channels TV