The Rivers State Commissioner of Police, Bala Mustapha, has issued an order to open the secretariats of the state’s 23 local government areas immediately.
This is in accordance with a direction issued by Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun.
Grace Iringe-Koko, spokesperson for the State Police Command, stated on Monday that the decision was made in accordance with the IGP’s directions.
The opening of the secretariats comes just 24 hours after Governor Siminalayi Fubara swore in the newly elected chairmen from Saturday’s local government elections.
It is worth noting that the police locked the 23 LGA headquarters in July during the crisis that erupted following the disputed tenure extension of the former chairmen.
During that time, police officers were in charge of the facilities.
The command highlighted that the recent decision is consistent with the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to neutrality and the smooth functioning of democratic institutions.
The statement read, “In light of recent political developments in Rivers State, the newly deployed Commissioner of Police, CP Bala Mustapha, conveys the directives of the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, for the immediate withdrawal of all police personnel previously stationed to secure the Local Government Secretariats.
“This decision reaffirms the Nigeria Police Force’s stance on neutrality and its dedication to ensuring the uninterrupted operation of democratic institutions.
“Police personnel will only be redeployed in the event of any crisis or breakdown of law and order. In such cases, emergency measures will be swiftly implemented to restore normalcy.
“The Rivers State Police Command assures the public of its commitment to maintaining peace and order throughout the state and will continue to act professionally. We urge residents and stakeholders to remain calm and law-abiding as the situation unfolds.”
