Relief International Africa Human Rights Clinics, a prominent human rights organization, commends the Nigeria Police, Rivers State Command, led by C P Olatunji Disu, for the recent achievements in tackling insecurity within Rivers State. The dedication and efforts of the police command have undoubtedly contributed to maintaining law and order in the state.
However, it is essential to note that these notable accomplishments could be tarnished if appropriate checks are not carried out on the activities of certain officers in different areas of the state. Specifically, officers who are assigned to guard former Governor Eze Nyesom Wike’s house at Adageorge have deviated from their core responsibilities and are now engaging in the unwarranted harassment of commercial motorists under the pretext of stop-and-search operations and blocking taxpayer-funded road every night.
There have also been reports of Police units, Police Patrol teams, Road Traffic Police officers, and Special Police joint and tactical Squads operating both day and night hours in locations such as Okilton Junction, Arcania Adageorge Road, Mile3 bus stop, Mile 1 market, directly opposite the Mile 1 police station, UST Roundabout, Azikiwe Street diobu, Olu-Obasanjo opposite the Police Station, Adageorge by Whimpey flyover, Whimpey Bus stop, front of Kala Market, Okilton Junction By NTA Mbguoba Road, Rumuola under flyover, Eliozu under flyover, Rumuodumanya special Area, Station Road, Old Portharcourt Township and various other parts of the state. These officers openly engage motorist in a form of buying and selling as they could be seen giving change (exchange of 100 naira notes) to taxi and bus drivers without fear at the amazement of the public. This is against the policing code and negates the integrity of the Nigeria Police Force. They have also been accused of harassing law-abiding private citizens due to their possession of tinted glass permits and use this to extort them.
It is also, on record that the Rivers State Police traffic wardens across the states no longer take their work seriously and many of them have abused their work codes as they often turn their duty post to market place which they engage buying and selling. They are no longer respected by citizens or commercial driver who flouts traffic rules and laws because they can pay money and have their way if caught.
The Human Rights Clinic urges the Commissioner of Police, Rivers State, CP Olatunji Disu to take immediate action in calling all Divisional Police Heads, Area Commanders, and their men to order and rectify these alarming occurrences. It is imperative that the Nigeria Police, Rivers State Command, upholds its integrity and ensures the protection of all citizens, regardless of their social status or possession of tinted glass permits.
The Nigeria Police, Rivers State Command, holds a tremendous responsibility in maintaining the public’s trust as an enforcer of law and protector of citizens. The actions of a few officers should not overshadow the commendable achievements of the command in combating insecurity within Rivers State.
The Human Rights Clinic calls on the Nigeria Police, Rivers State Command, to address these concerns promptly, safeguarding the image and reputation of the Nigeria Police Force as a whole. By doing so, the command can continue its vital work in ensuring the safety and security of the entire society.
SIGNED
Amb Green Isaac
Executive Director,
Relief International Africa