IGP orders deployment of additional Police officers to Rivers amid State of Emergency
IGP orders deployment of additional Police officers to Rivers amid State of Emergency
Kayode Egbetokun, Nigeria’s Inspector-General of Police, has ordered the swift deployment of additional security forces to Rivers State, following President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in the region due to escalating political and security unrest.
In a statement released on Friday by Muyiwa Adejobi, the Police spokesperson, it was revealed that the newly deployed operatives will work in close collaboration with the armed forces and other security agencies to reinforce law and order, ensure the protection of lives, and safeguard critical infrastructure in the state.
The decision to intensify security in Rivers comes in response to a series of events stemming from the political crisis that has plagued the state for nearly two years.
The statement highlighted that these ongoing issues had pushed the state to a precarious tipping point, requiring urgent intervention to prevent a complete breakdown of peace, which could have far-reaching consequences for Nigeria’s national security.
“The sequence of events leading up to this declaration directly correlates with the ongoing political turmoil in Rivers State over the past 22 months,” the statement read.
“These events have painted a picture of a state on the brink, necessitating immediate action to prevent a total collapse of law and order.”
As part of the operation, the Inspector-General emphasized that the additional security personnel would bolster efforts to secure public spaces, protect civilians, and maintain peace.
The deployment is also designed to stabilize the region and curb any potential disruption that could arise from unlawful activities.
In line with these measures, the police urged those with grievances to seek legal recourse through proper judicial channels, while warning that any attempts to escalate tensions through protests or illegal gatherings would be met with strict enforcement of the law.
“The public is reminded to remain peaceful and law-abiding, adhering to all legal instructions and continuing their daily activities without fear of unrest,” the statement further advised.
This heightened security measure follows a previous deployment by the federal government, which sent 10,000 personnel from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) to protect vital oil infrastructure in Rivers State.
According to NSCDC spokesperson Afolabi Babawale, these operatives are primarily tasked with preventing pipeline vandalism and securing oil facilities critical to the state’s economy.
