The Rivers State Police Command has unsealed all 23 Local Government Area secretariats in the state following the recent election and swearing-in of new chairmen.
This was confirmed in a statement released on Monday morning by the Command’s spokesperson, Grace Iringe-Koko.
According to the statement, the newly deployed Commissioner of Police, CP Mustapha Bala, acting on the orders of the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has instructed the immediate withdrawal of all police personnel previously deployed to secure and safeguard the council secretariats.
The police initially sealed off the secretariats due to political developments, but they have now been ordered to leave, as confirmed in the statement: “In view of the recent political developments in Rivers State, the newly deployed Commissioner of Police, CP Bala Mustapha hereby convey the directives of the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, for the immediate withdrawal of all police personnel previously deployed to seal and safeguard the Local Government Secretariats in the state.”
The police, however, stated that officers would only return to these locations if there is a crisis or any breakdown of law and order. The Command emphasized its commitment to remaining neutral and ensuring the smooth functioning of democratic institutions.
The statement further reassured the public of the Command’s readiness to maintain peace and order, urging residents to remain calm and law-abiding as the situation unfolds.
Grace Iringe-Koko, in her closing remarks, assured that the Rivers State Police would continue to act professionally in its duties and called for cooperation from all stakeholders:
“We urge all residents and stakeholders to remain calm and law-abiding as the situation evolves.”
