The Police Command has assured the public of its preparedness to handle any situation that may arise.
The Commissioner of Police in Rivers State, Olatunji Disu, emphasized his commitment to safeguarding the lives and properties of the state’s residents.
Speaking in Port Harcourt, Disu warned against taking the law into one’s hands, stressing that violators would face severe legal consequences.
His statement comes amid growing tension across some of the 23 local government areas in Rivers State as the tenure of the council chairmen expires at midnight on June 17.
The tension stems from the decision by the state’s local government chairmen, under the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria, to remain in office. They cite the Local Government Amendment Law No. 2 of 2024, enacted by the Martin Amaewhule-led 27-member House of Assembly, which extends their tenure by six months.
Disu acknowledged the ongoing crisis regarding the council chairmen’s tenure and referenced court orders related to the matter.
“The Court of Appeal has issued an order for everyone to exercise restraint until the 20th of this month — just three more days. We expect everyone to respect this and not take the law into their own hands, allowing peace to continue,” he stated.
He assured that his officers are diligently working to protect the community. “Our officers have been active around the clock. I recently addressed them and commended their efforts. They have been on duty since 4 a.m. and have just returned. We are fully prepared and have received additional support from Headquarters,” Disu said.
Disu urged the public to remain calm and parents to caution their children against being used in the crisis.
“We are committed to protecting all government property and every individual in this community,” he added.
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