7th April, 2024
By Okafor Ofiebor/Port Harcourt
As political tension rises in Rivers over the disagreement between Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State and Nyesom Wike Minister of Federal Capital Territory, the Rivers State Police Command has warned supporters of both parties to shun acts capable of causing a breach of the peace.
The command cautioned that it would not stand aloof and allow any individual or group to disrupt the existing peace in the state under any guise.
The command’s spokesperson, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, disclosed this in a signed press statement issued in Port Harcourt, on Sunday..
SP Iringe-Koko, said the command was aware of recent comments by politicians in the state which are capable of triggering violence and advised them to be guided.
The statement reads: “The Rivers State Police Command is fully aware of the numerous political statements and sentiments that have been circulating within the state.
“In the light of these developments, we would like to inform the general public and the esteemed people of Rivers State of the following:
“The Nigeria Police Force is the statutory and constitutional authority entrusted with the responsibilities of enforcing laws and orders, as well as protecting lives and properties, among others.
“The Rivers State Police Command, as an integral part of the Nigeria Police Force, is firmly committed to upholding and enforcing all laws and orders within the state.”
The statement added that the command would not “stand idle and allow any individual or group to disrupt the existing peace in the state under any guise or pretext.
“The Rivers State Police Command will not hesitate to take decisive action against any person or group of persons found to be in violation of the laws and orders of the state.”
The state police command “implored members of the public to maintain peace and abide by the laws of the land.” and urged those involved in the ongoing political unrest “to seek peaceful/lawful means to address your grievances.”
“Be assured that the command remains neutral and apolitical in all matters pertaining to the current political situation,”