The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has condemned the recent outbreak of violence in Rivers State, which has led to a breakdown of law and order at various Local Government Council secretariats.
A violent clash occurred on Tuesday in Port Harcourt, the capital of Rivers State. The conflict, stemming from disputes over the tenure of Local Government Council Chairmen, resulted in the tragic deaths of a police officer and a vigilante member.
In a statement released on Wednesday, Police Spokesman Olumuyiwa Adejobi shared that the Inspector General has instructed the Rivers State Commissioner of Police, Olatunji Disu, to enhance security measures across the state. Furthermore, the IG has ordered a thorough investigation into the killings and the general violence that ensued.
Egbetokun has also deployed the Force Intelligence Response Team (IRT) to assist the Rivers State Command in apprehending those responsible for the deaths. The statement highlights, “The Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, condemns in the strongest terms the recent outbreak of violence and subsequent breakdown of law and order at various Local Government Council secretariats in Rivers State, where supporters of two political factions clashed over the tenure of Local Government Council Chairmen, which unfortunately led to the tragic deaths of a Police Officer – Inspector David Mgbada, and Samuel Nwigwe, a vigilante member at Eberi-Omuma in Omuma LGA.”
The Inspector General has emphasized that individuals and groups engaging in violent attacks and killings of security personnel will face the full force of the law. He has also directed increased patrols, strategic deployment of officers, and enhanced intelligence operations to prevent further violence and ensure the safety of residents.
Expressing his condolences, Egbetokun stated, “The IGP extends heartfelt condolences to the families, friends, and colleagues of the deceased police officer and the vigilante member, noting that their dedication and sacrifice in the line of duty will not be taken for granted.” He also urged all residents and political stakeholders in Rivers State to remain calm and seek peaceful resolutions to conflicts.