The situation in Rivers State took an unexpected turn with the sealing of council offices in June last year, following a dispute over the appointment of caretaker committee chairmen by Governor Siminalayi Fubara. Tensions flared when Fubara objected to the “illegal” extension of tenure granted to former council chairmen by a faction of the Rivers State House of Assembly led by Martins Amaewhule.
The spokesperson for the Rivers Police Command, Superintendent Grace Iringe-Koko, announced the withdrawal of the police personnel in a statement issued in Port Harcourt on Monday. “The withdrawal of all police officers previously deployed to seal and safeguard the council secretariats by the IGP was communicated by the new Rivers Commissioner of Police, Bala Mustapha,” Iringe-Koko said.
She further explained that the move reflects the police’s commitment to neutrality and support for the smooth functioning of democratic institutions. “However, police officers will be redeployed to these locations in the event of a crisis or breach of order,” she added.
This situation raises serious questions about political stability and democracy in Rivers State. The intervention of the police and the subsequent withdrawal of personnel point to deeper issues within local institutions.
It is crucial that the various actors in the political scene in Rivers State demonstrate resilience and responsibility to preserve peace and order in the region. Concerted measures are needed to bridge divisions and find lasting solutions to the ongoing conflicts.
Transparency, dialogue and respect for the rule of law are essential to ensure a peaceful and democratic political transition in Rivers State. It is now up to local leaders to lead by example and work together for the well-being of all citizens of the state.