River crisis: IGP condemns killings of personnel

The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, on Wednesday strongly condemned the recent outbreak of violence and subsequent breakdown of law and order at various Local Government Council secretariats in Rivers State.

The clashes, involving supporters of two political factions over the tenure of Local Government Council Chairmen, tragically led to the deaths of Police Officer Inspector David Mgbada and Samuel Nwigwe, a vigilante member, at Eberi-Omuma in Omuma Local Government Area.

This condemnation was contained in a statement released to the press in Abuja by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi.

According to the statement, “In response to these heinous acts, the IGP has directed the Commissioner of Police in Rivers State, CP Olatunji Disu, to heighten security measures across the state and institute thorough investigations into the killing of the police officer and the vigilante operative, as well as the general violence which erupted in the state.”

The statement added that the IGP has specifically deployed operatives of the Force Intelligence Response Team (IRT) to assist the Rivers State Command in apprehending the killers of the police officer and the vigilante member.

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It further added that the IGP seriously warned individuals and groups of
people who have a penchant for senseless attacks and mindless killings of police officers and other security operatives across the country to desist forthwith as the fullest force of the law will be meted on them.

According to the statement, the CP has also been directed to focus on
increased patrols, strategic deployment of officers, and enhanced
intelligence operations to prevent further violence and ensure the safety of all residents and that 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.

It added that the Inspector General of Police called on all residents and
political stakeholders in the State to exercise restraint and seek peaceful
means of resolving differences.

NIGERIAN TRIBUNE