Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has warned the police commissioner in the state, Olatunji Disu, as well as other officers to desist from abandoning their core professional responsibilities to pursue vested political interests.
According to the governor, such may eventually hurt them in the long run.
Governor Fubara made this statement during the inauguration and formal handover of 100 operational vehicles acquired by his administration to the Rivers State Police Command at the Sharks Football Stadium in Port Harcourt on Tuesday.
The governor said police officers are engaged and trained as professionals to protect lives and property while contributing to the desired peace in the state as a patriotic duty.
He said, “I need to say this so that you will understand. When you (Disu) came to Rivers State, and I had my encounter with you, I requested only one thing: That I will never ask you to do what is wrong. So do what is right. Protect the lives and property of Rivers people. Don’t be partisan.
“We have seen those people that were partisan; how they ended. And, I am saying it here to every one of you who is an officer who is being partisan: You will see how you will end.
“So, work in such a way that when your name is mentioned in this State, or your children come to this state, you won’t be scared. This is important.”
The Governor added, “It is not to protect any individual. It is not to be one-sided in the political affairs of the State. Politics will come and it will go. The enmity you are creating, for those of you who are partisan, will live with you forever.
“So, I want to advise you, I have said it before, and I am saying it again: I will never ask any of you to do what is wrong. My appeal is: to stand on the ethics of your profession and protect the lives and property of Rivers people. Be fair to all.”
The governor also commended the Commissioner of Police for his idea to acquire operational vehicles for the Command. He explained that the donated vehicles, including Toyota Sienna, Camry, and Collora, aim to enhance response times to crime scenes and support the police in their duties.
On his part, Disu expressed gratitude to Governor Fubara for his support, which has translated into the Command’s dedication to serving the welfare of various communities. He noted that the donated vehicles will empower officers to respond more effectively to emergencies and enhance community policing efforts.
It should be recalled that the state governor is currently embroiled in a political battle with his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, over alleged control of state resources.
