Kehinde Fajobi
Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun has ordered the immediate unsealing of secretariats across all 23 local government areas in Rivers State after widespread criticism over his role in the recently concluded local government elections in the state.
The directive was issued on Monday through a statement by the Rivers State Police Command’s Public Relations Officer, Grace Iringe-Koko. It confirmed that newly deployed Commissioner of Police, CP Bala Mustapha, was tasked with overseeing the withdrawal of police personnel who had been stationed at the secretariats.
“This decision aligns with the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to maintaining neutrality and ensuring the smooth operation of democratic institutions,” the statement read.
The sealing of the secretariats followed political tension after former council chairmen, reportedly loyal to FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, had their tenure extended, a move contested by Governor Siminalayi Fubara, who appointed caretaker committee chairmen.
The IGP responded by sealing the secretariats, preventing both local government workers and the new chairmen from accessing the offices.
The statement clarified that police will only return to these locations in the event of a crisis or breakdown of law and order.
“Emergency measures will be swiftly implemented to restore normalcy if necessary,” it added.
The Rivers State Police Command reassured the public of its dedication to maintaining peace and urged residents to remain calm.
The newly appointed council chairmen are expected to resume work today and swear in the newly elected councillors.