The Rivers State Police Command has warned politicians to seek a lawful means to address grievances rather than resort to verbal attacks that can stoke violence in the state.
The warning comes on the heels of recent verbal attacks between Governor Similanayi Fubara and Nyesom Wike, his predecessor, who is now Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The crisis between the duo has set Rivers political stakeholders against one another.
Although Tunji Disu, the police commissioner, did not mention the names of Wike and Fubara directly, Police Public Relations Officer in the state, SP Grace Iringe Koko, quoted him as saying the command will not fold its hands and watch the state erupt in crisis as a result of utterances and actions of politicians.
The command implored the political class and members of the public in the state to maintain peace and abide by the laws of the land.
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“The Rivers State Police Command is fully aware of the numerous political statements and sentiments that have been circulating within the state. In light of these developments, we would like to inform the general public and the esteemed people of Rivers State of the following:
“The Nigeria Police Force is the statutory and constitutional authority entrusted with the responsibilities of enforcing laws and orders, as well as protecting lives and properties, among others.
“The Rivers State Police Command, as an integral part of the Nigeria Police Force, is firmly committed to upholding and enforcing all laws and orders within the state.
“The Command will not stand idle and allow any individual or group to disrupt the existing peace in the state under any guise or pretext.
“The Rivers State Police Command will not hesitate to take decisive action against any person or group of persons found to be in violation of the laws and orders of the state. Therefore, we implore members of the public to maintain peace and abide by the laws of the land. To those involved in the ongoing political unrest, we urge you to seek peaceful/lawful means to address your grievances,” Koko stated.
Koko said the command will remain neutral and apolitical in all matters pertaining to the current political situation in the state.