The Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun on Wednesday directed the Commissioner of Police in Rivers State, CP Olatunji Disu, to heighten security measures across the state following crisis over tenure of local government officials.
Egbetokun condemns in the strongest terms the recent outbreak of violence and subsequent breakdown of law and order at various Local Government Council secretariats in Rivers State.
A statement issued by Force spokesperson ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi for the IGP in Abuja stated that violence broke out when supporters of two political factions clashed over the tenure of Local Government Council Chairmen, which unfortunately led to the tragic deaths of a Police Officer – Inspector David Mgbada, and Samuel Nwigwe, a vigilante member at Eberi-Omuma in Omuma LGA.
“In response to these heinous acts, the IGP has directed the Commissioner of Police in Rivers State, CP Olatunji Disu, to heighten security measures across the state and institute thorough investigations into the killing of the police officer and the vigilante operative, as well as the general violence which erupted in the state.
“The IGP has specifically deployed operatives of the Force Intelligence Response Team (IRT) to assist the Rivers State Command in apprehending the killers of the police officer and the vigilante member.
“The IGP seriously warns individuals and groups of people who have a penchant for senseless attacks and mindless killings of police officers and other security operatives across the country to desist forthwith as the fullest force of the law will be meted on them.
“The CP has also been directed to focus on increased patrols, strategic deployment of officers, and enhanced intelligence operations to prevent further violence and ensure the safety of all residents.
“The IGP extends heartfelt condolences to the families, friends, and colleagues of the deceased police officer and the vigilante member noting that their dedication and sacrifice in the line of duty will not be taken for granted,” the statement added.
The Inspector General of Police calls on all residents and political stakeholders in the State to exercise restraint and seek peaceful means of resolving differences.
Recall that the elected local government councils chairmen, Vice chairmen and counselors loyal to the Minister of Federal Capital Territory Nysom Wike whose tenure elapsed on June 17 are insisting that their tenures have been extended by 25 members of state Assembly that decamped from the People Democratic Party, PDP.
While on Monday Rivers State Governor S. Fubara in a state wide broadcast asked the Local government heads of administration to takeover their respective local government administration pending further notice.