Inspector General of Police Orders Withdrawal of Police Personnel from 23 Local Government Secretariats in Rivers
Kayode Egbetokun, the Inspector General of Police has ordered the immediate withdrawal of police personnel stationed at the secretariats of the 23 local government areas in Rivers State, effectively ending a months-long security presence at these facilities.
This decision comes just 24 hours after Governor Siminalayi Fubara swore in newly elected chairmen following local government elections held on Saturday.
The secretariats had been sealed since July due to tensions surrounding the controversial tenure extension of the previous chairmen, with police personnel deployed to maintain order during the political crisis.
In a statement, the Command confirmed the withdrawal aligns with the IGP’s orders and reflects a dedication to fostering a peaceful political environment as the Rivers State Police Command also reassured the public that police personnel would be redeployed only if a crisis or threat to public order arises.
They encouraged residents and political stakeholders to remain calm and law-abiding while reaffirming their commitment to maintaining peace in the state.