Kayode Egbetokun, the Inspector General of Police (IGP), has ordered an investigation into Tuesday’s killing of a police officer in the ongoing Rivers State’s political turmoil.
Clashes between supporters of two political factions over the tenure of local government chairmen in the state resulted in the tragic deaths of David Mgbada, a police officer and Samuel Nwigwe, a member of a vigilante group at Eberi-Omuma in Omuma LGA.
Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the spokesperson of the Nigeria Police Force, said the IGP was concerned about the developments in Rivers State.
He has directed Olatunji Disu, the commissioner of Police in Rivers State to increase security measures throughout the state and to carry out thorough investigations into the killings and the broader violence.
To assist in the investigations and ensure swift justice, the IGP has deployed operatives from the Force Intelligence Response Team (IRT) to Rivers State.
These operatives will work alongside the state command to apprehend those responsible for the deaths of the police officer and the vigilante member.
The IGP also issued a stern warning to individuals and groups engaging in attacks against police officers and security operatives, emphasizing that such acts will be met with the full force of the law.
“Disu has been instructed to enhance patrols, strategically deploy officers, and improve intelligence operations to prevent further violence and safeguard residents”, Adejobi stated.
The IGP extended condolences to the families, friends, and colleagues of the deceased, recognising their dedication and sacrifice in the line of duty.
He also called on all residents and political stakeholders in Rivers State to exercise restraint and seek peaceful resolutions to their differences.
