The inspector general of police, Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered the withdrawal of police officers from the 23 local government council secretariats in Rivers.

The council offices were sealed in June following a dispute over the appointment of caretaker committee chairs by Governor Siminalayi Fubara.

Tensions escalated when Mr Fubara opposed a tenure extension granted to the former council chairs by a faction of the Rivers House of Assembly led by Martins Amaewhule.

Grace Iringe-Koko, the spokesperson for the police command in Rivers, announced the withdrawal of police personnel in a statement issued in Port Harcourt on Monday.

“The IGP’s withdrawal of all personnel previously deployed to seal and safeguard the council secretariates was conveyed by the new Commissioner of Police in Rivers, Bala Mustapha,” Ms Iringe-Koko said.

She further explained that the decision reflects the police’s commitment to neutrality and supporting the smooth functioning of democratic institutions.

“However, police operatives will be redeployed to these locations in the event of any crises or breakdown of law and order,” she added.

Ms Iringe-Koko urged residents and politicians to remain calm and law-abiding. 

(NAN)