BREATHING: IGP withdraws personnel Rivers LGAs

The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered the immediate withdrawal of police personnel stationed at the 23 Local Government Areas in Rivers State.

This decision was announced by the Public Relations Officer of the Rivers State Command, Grace Iringe-Koko, on Monday.

The withdrawal follows recent political developments in the state. According to a statement, the newly appointed State Commissioner of Police, Bala Mustapha, communicated the Inspector General’s directive.

The personnel were initially deployed to secure the local government secretariats, but the order for their removal aligns with the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to remain neutral and ensure the smooth operation of democratic institutions.

The police stated that security personnel would only be redeployed to the areas if a crisis arises, with emergency measures swiftly put in place to restore order.

The Rivers State Command reassured residents of its dedication to maintaining peace and order and urged them to remain calm and law-abiding as the situation evolves.