Segun Atanda/
Rivers State is on edge after a violent confrontation between rival political factions resulted in the deaths of a police officer and a vigilante member. The turmoil erupted over disputes regarding the tenure of Local Government Council Chairmen, leading to chaos at several Local Government Council secretariats.
Inspector General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has issued a statement on the events that claimed the lives of Inspector David Mgbada and vigilante Samuel Nwigwe in Eberi-Omuma.
Condemning the violence, Egbetokun ordered an immediate crackdown, deploying the elite Force Intelligence Response Team (IRT) to hunt down those responsible.
“These senseless attacks will not be tolerated,” the IGP stated, emphasizing a no-nonsense approach to violence against security personnel.
“The full force of the law will be applied to bring these perpetrators to justice,” he stated.
Egbetokun also tasked the Rivers State Commissioner of Police, Olatunji Disu, with ramping up security measures across the state. Increased patrols, strategic officer deployment, and enhanced intelligence operations are all part of the plan to restore peace and protect residents.
The loss of Inspector Mgbada and vigilante Nwigwe has cast a pall over the community, but the IGP’s strong stance provides a glimmer of hope. He expressed deep condolences to the families and colleagues of the deceased, vowing that their sacrifice will not be forgotten.
As Rivers State navigates this turbulent period, the IGP’s call for restraint and peaceful resolution rings clear.
“Together, we can overcome this challenge and ensure a safer, more secure environment for all,” he urged residents and political stakeholders.
With the Nigeria Police Force committed to restoring order and bringing offenders to justice, the people of Rivers State look ahead, hopeful for a return to peace.
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