Police Warn Rivers State NULGE To Suspend Planned Protest

By Akinwale Kasali

The Nigerian Union of Local Government Employees, NULGE, Rivers State Chapter, has been warned by the Police to, with immediate effect, suspend its planned protest over the sealing of 23 Local Government Council Secretariats in the State.

The Police stated there are credible intelligence reports of a possible hijack of the  protest by hoodlums.

In a statement issued by SP Grace Iringe-Koko, Rivers State Command Public Relations Officer, in Port Harcourt, the Police stated that in as much as the  Command respects the right to lawful assembly, the credible intelligence report gathered indicates a potential infiltration of the planned protest.

“Hoodlums plan to hijack the protest and instigate chaos in the state.

“Consequently, the Command advises the organisers to suspend the planned protest to avert any possible breakdown of law and order,” the statement said.

It affirmed Police’s commitment to safeguarding the lives and property of residents. And

warned of the imminent arrest and prosecution of anyone or group attempting to disturb the peace.

“In an effort to ensure public safety, the Commissioner of Police, Olatunji Disu, has deployed officers to the 23 Local Government Council secretariats to maintain security until the risk of disruption ceases.

“Comprehensive security measures have been put in place to safeguard lives and property, ensuring unhindered traffic flow and lawful activities across the state,” she added.

The Police statement urged residents to carry on with their daily activities without fear, as the Police has implemented tactical measures to guarantee their safety.

It would be recalled that Governor  Siminalayi Fubara had dissolved the Councils on June 20 in a state-wide broadcast, citing the provisions of the Nigerian Constitution on the tenure of Local Government Administration.

Governor Fubara had directed the Heads of Administration in the councils to immediately take charge of the Councils’ affairs.

He also ordered the audit of the Councils and, since, appointed Caretaker Committees that are operating outside the Council secretariats due to their takeover by the Police.