The Rivers State Commissioner of Police, Bala Mustapha, has ordered the immediate unsealing of the secretariats of the 23 local government areas in the state.

This follows a directive from the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun.

In a statement released on Monday by the spokesperson for the State Police Command, Grace Iringe-Koko, the decision was said to be in compliance with the IGP’s orders.

The unsealing of the secretariats comes just 24 hours after Governor Siminalayi Fubara swore in the newly elected chairmen who emerged from Saturday’s local government elections.

It is worth recalling that the police had sealed the 23 LGA headquarters in July amidst the crisis that followed the controversial tenure extension of the former chairmen.

The facilities were manned by police personnel during that period.

The command emphasised that this latest decision aligns with the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to neutrality and the smooth functioning of democratic institutions.

The statement read, “In light of recent political developments in Rivers State, the newly deployed Commissioner of Police, CP Bala Mustapha, conveys the directives of the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, for the immediate withdrawal of all police personnel previously stationed to secure the Local Government Secretariats.

“This decision reaffirms the Nigeria Police Force’s stance on neutrality and its dedication to ensuring the uninterrupted operation of democratic institutions.

“Police personnel will only be redeployed in the event of any crisis or breakdown of law and order. In such cases, emergency measures will be swiftly implemented to restore normalcy.

“The Rivers State Police Command assures the public of its commitment to maintaining peace and order throughout the state and will continue to act professionally. We urge residents and stakeholders to remain calm and law-abiding as the situation unfolds.”

PUNCH