JUST IN: IGP Orders Immediate Withdrawal of Police Personnel from Rivers LGAs

Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun has ordered the immediate withdrawal of police personnel deployed to secure the 23 local government areas of Rivers State. This directive was communicated on Monday through a statement by Grace Iringe-Koko, Public Relations Officer of the Rivers State Command.

The decision comes in response to recent political events in the state. The newly appointed State Commissioner of Police, Bala Mustapha, conveyed the IGP’s orders, stating that all personnel previously assigned to seal off and protect the Local Government Secretariats would be withdrawn.

The statement underscored that this move aligns with the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to ensuring neutrality and promoting the smooth functioning of democratic institutions. It further clarified that police personnel would only be redeployed to these areas in the event of a crisis or law enforcement emergency, allowing for a swift restoration of order.

The Rivers State Command reassured the public of its dedication to maintaining peace and order in the region and emphasized its commitment to professional conduct in carrying out its responsibilities. Residents and stakeholders have been encouraged to remain calm and law-abiding as the situation develops.