Amid rising political tensions in Rivers state, residents have lauded the police command for its professionalism and proactive measures.
Following a power struggle between governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor Nyesom Wike’s loyalists, police took control of the 23 local council secretariats to prevent chaos.
The crisis has already claimed two lives, police inspector David Mgbada and vigilante member Samuel Nwigwe, during a clash in Omuma LGA.
The tension escalated after the governor terminated the tenure of the 23 council chairmen, conflicting with a state law extending their term by six months.
A Court of Appeal order further complicated the situation by mandating that the status quo be maintained until the hearing of suits on the matter. The council chairmen and executives have vowed to stay on for another six months, citing the tenure extension law.
Commissioner of police Olatunji Disu, anticipating potential violence, reinforced security across all LGAs. Many residents believe this move was crucial in averting further bloodshed.
“We are not going to be quiet and watch an ugly history repeat itself,” said Ogoni community leader Saviour Nebari, referencing the 2013 Rotimi Amaechi versus Nyesom Wike crisis. “Politicians should learn to resolve their issues without recourse to violence.”
Community leader Saviour Nebari and National Coordinator of the Centre for Basic Rights Protection and Accountability Campaign, Prince Wiro Junior, praised the police for their timely intervention and professionalism.
Prince Udemkwe, another resident, pointed out that accusations against the police from both factions indicate their neutrality. “For us, the ordinary residents in Rivers State, we are glad that the police have stayed proactive,” he added.
Grace Iringe-Koko, a public relations officer in the state, affirmed the police’s commitment to maintaining order.
“We are only doing our job as we are supposed to. We have a no-nonsense CP who has a track record of being professional. We will not take it lightly with anyone fomenting trouble in the state,” the police spokesperson said.
Kayode Egbetokun, Inspector General of Police, directed enhanced security measures and an investigation into the killings.
Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun deployed the Force Intelligence Response Team (IRT) to assist in apprehending the killers and stressed that attacks on police officers and security operatives will not be tolerated.
Force Public Relations Officer ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi stated, “The Inspector General of Police urges all residents and political stakeholders in the state to exercise restraint and seek peaceful means of resolving differences.”
