The Rivers State Police Command has issued a warning regarding a planned protest by the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) scheduled for June 24, 2024.
According to the Command’s Spokesperson, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, while the Command acknowledges the right to peaceful assembly, it has received credible intelligence suggesting that the protest may be infiltrated by hoodlums aiming to cause chaos and destruction in the state.
However, the police are urging the public to exercise caution and remain vigilant to ensure the safety of all.
She said: “Consequently, the Command strongly advises the organisers to suspend the planned protest to prevent a possible breakdown of law and order.
The Police will take all necessary lawful measures to protect the lives and properties of every resident in Rivers State.
“The Command has vowed to apprehend and prosecute any person or group that attempts to disrupt the peace.”
Meanwhile, to guarantee the safety and security of the public, Iringe-Koko said the Rivers State Commissioner of Police, CP Olatunji Disu, has strategically deployed police officers to the secretariats of all 23 Local Government Areas (LGAs) across the state.
She noted that the officers will maintain a visible presence in their assigned locations until the threat of disruption and chaos has been mitigated and the situation is deemed safe.
She added: “CP Olatunji Disu reassures the residents of Rivers State that the Command has implemented comprehensive security measures to safeguard lives, and property, and ensure unhindered traffic flow, fostering a peaceful environment for all lawful activities. He urges law-abiding residents to go about their daily routines without fear, as robust measures have been strategically deployed to guarantee their safety and well-being.
“The Rivers State Police Command remains committed to maintaining peace and order within the state and will not hesitate to take firm action against any individual or group that attempts to disrupt the public peace, ” she said.