Following the ongoing game of thrones unfolding in Rivers State, and the emergence of the duly elected 23 local government chairmen in the State, who were officially sworn-in to office by the state’s governor, the inspector general of police, Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered immediate withdrawal of the force men from the LGAs secretariats, which was sealed in the face of rivalry between caretakers in piety to Nyesome Wike, Minister of FCT, and Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara.
Upholding law and order was Kayode Egbetokun’s priority, following the battle of who grips Rivers State between the godfather and godson, Nyesome Wike and Siminalayi Fubara. It got tensed in June and the inspector-general of police has to order the NPF men to take over, seal and safeguard the 23 local government areas secretariats in the State.
Professionally discharging its duty, Iringe-Koko said the directive “is in line with the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to ensure neutrality and the smooth functioning of democratic institutions”.
“The IGP has ordered the unsealing of the Local Government Secretariat, which were earlier secured by police personnel,” Koko submitted.
Further reiterating its commitment to maintain law. and order, Iringe-Koko said “The police will only be redeployed to these locations in the event of any crisis or breakdown of law and order, in which case emergency measures will be swiftly implemented to restore normalcy.”
“The Rivers State Police Command assures the public of its readiness to maintain peace and order across the state and will continue to act professionally in discharging its duties.
“We urge all residents and stakeholders to remain calm and law-abiding as the situation continues to evolve.
The development comes barely 24 hours after Governor Fubara swore in the 23 newly elected local government chairmen.
Little wonder the formula of the game that tilted towards the one with the lead, before the poll accusing the IGP of allegedly taking orders from Wike, which was sharply refuted by the police.
