The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has directed the immediate withdrawal of police personnel deployed to seal off the 23 local government areas in Rivers State.
This decision follows recent political developments in the state.
According to Grace Iringe-Koko, Public Relations Officer of the Rivers State Command, the withdrawal is in line with the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to ensuring neutrality and the smooth functioning of democratic institutions. The police personnel were initially deployed to seal and safeguard the Local Government Secretariats in the state.
The withdrawal is seen as a significant development in the ongoing political tensions between factions loyal to Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, now the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory ³. The police had been deployed to maintain law and order, but their presence was perceived as partisan.
The Rivers State Command has assured the public of its continued commitment to maintaining peace and order across the state. Residents and stakeholders have been urged to remain calm and law-abiding as the situation unfolds. The command reiterated its professional conduct in carrying out its duties.
With the withdrawal of police personnel, the newly sworn-in 23 council chairmen are expected to resume work in their respective LGAs. They will also swear in the newly elected councillors ⁵. The development is expected to bring a sense of normalcy to the state’s local government administration.
In a statement, Grace Iringe-Koko quoted the Inspector-General of Police as directing “the immediate withdrawal of all police personnel previously deployed to seal and safeguard the Local Government Secretariats in the state.” The decision aims to ensure the smooth functioning of democratic institutions.
