Rivers State’s newly appointed Commissioner of Police, Mr. Mustapha Mohammed, has pledged to swiftly restore peace and order in the 23 local government areas of the state affected by post-election arson and violence that erupted on Monday.
To achieve this, he plans to collaborate with various stakeholders, including state and non-state actors.
Mohammed made the statement during his maiden media briefing shortly after taking over from his predecessor, CP Olatunji Disu, at the command’s headquarters in Port Harcourt on Monday.
He said he has zero tolerance for corruption, stating that any officer found wanting would be punished appropriately.
Mohammed, who described the security concerns in the state as critical and unique, said: “As I assume duty, I wish to make it abundantly clear that my priority is to ensure the safety, security, and well-being of all residents and visitors in Rivers State.
“I am aware that Rivers State, being one of the nation’s economic hubs, faces unique security challenges.
“From incidents of kidnapping, cultism, armed robbery, and oil bunkering to communal clashes and violent crimes, and more recently, crises emanating from political interests, the complexities of maintaining law and order here require a proactive and strategic approach.”
He declared that the command he is in charge of will uphold transparency and welcome constructive criticism.
He said: “A society thrives when there is trust between its institutions and its people, and the press is key to building and maintaining that trust.”
Mohammed also said: “It is with a sense of duty and responsibility that I take on this new role, knowing the unique challenges and security concerns that Rivers State faces.
“My priority task is to swiftly restore calm in the respective local government areas where pockets of violence and arson attacks have been present.
“My commitment is to work collaboratively with state and non-state actors, as well as all critical stakeholders, to address these challenges head-on.
“Upon assuming this office, I have reviewed the current security situation in the state, and I would like to outline my vision and strategies for ensuring the safety and security of our communities and people.
“In my leadership, I will not tolerate any form of corruption, misconduct, or abuse of power by police officers. Those found engaging in unprofessional behaviour will face the full wrath of the law.
“We are here to uphold justice, not to be agents of oppression. Our internal monitoring mechanisms will be strengthened to ensure discipline within the ranks.
“Rivers State has been plagued by issues of cultism, which often lead to violent clashes and needless loss of lives.
“We will intensify our efforts in curbing cult-related activities and work with youth groups, religious bodies, and civil society organisations to promote peace, education, and alternative livelihoods for the youth.”
Mohammed pledged to swiftly address the post-election violence that recently shook the state.
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