The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered the reopening of Rivers State’s 23 local government secretariats, just hours after Governor Siminalayi Fubara swore in the newly elected chairmen. The decision marks a de-escalation of the political tension that had gripped the state, following a dispute over the control of local governments.
The police had previously sealed off the secretariats amid a power struggle between loyalists of former Governor and current FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, and Governor Fubara. The conflict arose after the purported extension of tenure for council chairmen loyal to Wike, a move countered by Fubara’s appointment of caretaker committee (CTC) chairmen.
The closure of the secretariats had disrupted local government activities, preventing workers and the appointed CTC chairmen from accessing their offices. However, with the conclusion of the Rivers local government election, in which the Action Peoples Party (APP) won 22 of the 23 chairmanship seats, and the subsequent swearing-in of the newly elected chairmen, the police have withdrawn their personnel.
In a statement, Grace Iringe-Koko, spokesperson for the Rivers State Police Command, confirmed that police presence at the secretariats would now only be necessary in the event of a security threat. The command assured the public of its readiness to maintain peace and swiftly respond to any potential breakdown of law and order.
Speaking at the swearing-in ceremony, Governor Fubara urged the new chairmen to adopt a peaceful and strategic approach to governance. He hinted at potential attempts to disrupt their work, advising them to remain patient and avoid confrontation.
“I’m aware that they are mobilising people to confront you when you resume in your local government headquarters,” Fubara said. “Please, if they come with violence, avoid them. The peace of this state is too important to us. Be patient and calculative—at the right time, you will always win.”
The newly elected chairmen, including councillors, are expected to assume their duties in their respective local governments today, signaling a return to normalcy following the political standoff.
