The Inspector General of Police has ordered the withdrawal of police from Rivers State's local government secretariats, which were sealed since July amid political tensions. This decision follows the swearing-in of newly elected chairpersons, emphasizing the police's commitment to political neutrality and the smooth functioning of democracy.
The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has instructed the immediate withdrawal of police personnel from the secretariats of all 23 local government areas in Rivers State. This directive was supported by the Commissioner of Police in Rivers, Bala Mustapha, who also announced the unsealing of these secretariats.
The announcement came shortly after Governor Siminalayi Fubara officially swore in newly elected chairpersons following local government elections held over the weekend. The secretariats had been sealed since July due to heightened tensions surrounding the tenure extension of former chairpersons, with police assigned to maintain order during the political unrest.
In a statement, the police command emphasized that this decision reflects the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to remaining politically neutral and facilitating the smooth operation of democratic institutions in the state. This move aims to restore political stability and support the newly elected officials in their governance efforts.
