The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered the immediate reopening of local government secretariats across the 23 local government areas (LGAs) in Rivers State. This directive follows widespread criticism and concerns surrounding the police’s involvement in the recently concluded local government elections in the state.
A statement released on Monday by the Rivers State Police Command’s spokesperson, Grace Iringe-Koko, confirmed the IGP’s decision. According to the statement, the newly appointed Commissioner of Police, CP Bala Mustapha, has been instructed to ensure that all police personnel who were deployed to seal the LGA secretariats are withdrawn without delay.
“This decision aligns with the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to maintaining neutrality and ensuring the smooth operation of democratic institutions,” the statement read.
The sealing of the secretariats occurred amid political tensions following the controversial extension of the tenure of former council chairmen who were seen as loyal to Nyesom Wike, the current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). In response, Governor Siminalayi Fubara appointed caretaker committee (CTC) chairmen to replace the outgoing council heads, sparking a conflict over leadership in the local governments.
To prevent further escalation, the IGP had earlier ordered the police to seal the secretariats, effectively barring the CTC chairmen and local government staff from accessing their offices. This action sparked public outrage, as it hindered the functioning of the local government councils and disrupted administrative duties.
With the latest directive to unseal the secretariats, the police emphasized their readiness to intervene only if there is a breakdown of law and order. “Emergency measures will be swiftly implemented to restore normalcy if necessary,” the statement continued.
