The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered the immediate withdrawal of police officers deployed to seal off the 23 local government areas in Rivers State. This directive was issued on Monday, as announced in a statement by Grace Iringe-Koko, the Public Relations Officer of the Rivers State Command.
The withdrawal comes in response to recent political developments in the state. According to the statement, Bala Mustapha, the newly appointed Commissioner of Police for Rivers State, relayed the IGP’s orders.
The decision is part of the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to maintaining neutrality and supporting the proper functioning of democratic institutions. The police clarified that personnel would only be redeployed to the local government areas if there is a crisis or breakdown in law and order, with emergency measures implemented to restore peace if necessary.
The Rivers State Command reassured the public of its dedication to upholding peace and security across the state, while maintaining professional conduct. Residents and stakeholders were urged to remain calm and law-abiding as the situation develops.
