Police Vow to Avoid Media Tussle with Rivers State Governor Amid Political Crisis

The Nigeria Police has refused to engage in a media battle with Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, over the political crisis rocking the state. Instead, the police have condemned the allegations made by the governor, citing a court order that bars the force from participating in the LGA elections.

In a statement released by the police spokesperson, Muyiwa Adejobi, on Monday, the police also debunked the prevailing falsehood of partisanship circulating in the media. Adejobi reiterated the police’s neutrality and non-interference in political affairs within the state and the country.

The police spokesperson expressed disappointment at the misinformation triggered by the governor’s unwarranted outburst, which he deemed unfair to law enforcement institutions in Nigeria. Adejobi encouraged the public to profile the career journey of the Inspector-General of Police, who has a track record of honor, integrity, and focus.

The Inspector-General of Police is highly respected in the Association of Chiefs of Police Worldwide, particularly in Africa, where he serves as the Chairman of the West African Police Chiefs Committee (WAPCCO). The police have witnessed Chiefs of Police from around the world attending his events in Nigeria and extending invitations to him. For the first time, the president of Interpol attended the opening ceremony of the Nigeria Police conference and retreat in Owerri last year under this IGP.

The police’s statement emphasized the importance of observing decorum in Nigerian politics, urging all parties to refrain from spreading misinformation and engaging in media battles that can undermine the country’s stability.