The Rivers State Police Command has called on the Nigerian Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) to postpone their planned protest against the closure of 23 local government council secretariats. The command cited credible intelligence suggesting a risk of the protest being hijacked by hoodlums.
SP Grace Iringe-Koko, spokesperson for the command, stated, “While respecting the right to peaceful assembly, the police have received credible information indicating potential infiltration by hoodlums intending to disrupt Monday’s planned protest. To prevent any breakdown of law and order, the command advises organizers to suspend the protest.”
Iringe-Koko reaffirmed the police’s commitment to protecting residents’ lives and property, emphasizing that individuals or groups attempting to disturb the peace would face arrest and prosecution.
“In response to these concerns, Commissioner of Police Olatunji Disu has deployed officers to the 23 local government council secretariats to ensure security until the situation stabilizes,” she added.
The spokesperson assured residents that comprehensive security measures were in place to maintain public safety, ensure smooth traffic flow, and allow lawful activities across the state.
Governor Siminalaye Fubara had dissolved the councils on June 20, citing constitutional provisions on local government administration tenure. He directed council administration heads to assume control immediately, appointing caretaker committees to oversee affairs outside the occupied secretariats.
However, Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun announced on June 22 that police would remain at the secretariats pending a final court judgment on the chairmen’s tenure.
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