Relief International Africa Human Rights Clinics Applauds Nigeria Police, Rivers State Command, For Addressing Insecurity

Relief International Africa Human Rights Clinics, a 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 Ada George 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 a 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 in day and night hours at locations such as Okilton Junction, Arcania Ada-George Road, Mile 3 Bus Stop, Mile 1 Market, directly opposite the Mile 1 Police Station, UST Roundabout, Azikiwe Street Diobu, Olu-Obasanjo opposite the Police Station, Ada George by Whimpey Flyover, Whimpey Bus Stop, front of Kala Market, Okilton Junction By NTA, Mgbuoba Road, Rumuola under flyover, Eliozu under Flyover, Rumuodumanya special area, Station Road, Old Port- Harcourt Township, and various other parts of the state. These officers openly engage motorists in a form of buying and selling as they could be seen giving out ‘change’ (breaking down high naira denominations into smaller units) to taxi and bus drivers without fear to 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 over tinted glass permits, using that as excuse 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 some turn their duty posts to market places where they engage in buying and selling. Consequently, they are no longer respected by citizens or commercial drivers who flout 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 by calling all Divisional Police Heads, Area Commanders, and their men to order to 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 public 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.
About Relief International Africa Human Rights Clinics:
Relief International Africa Human Rights Clinic is an organization dedicated to promoting and protecting human rights across Nigeria through collaboration with National Human Rights Commission, etc. With a team of committed human rights activists, lawyers, and experts, we work tirelessly to advocate for justice, equality, and accountability in Nigeria. Our mission is to empower individuals and communities, promote awareness, and advocate for systemic change to support the rights and dignity of all individuals.
Signed:
Amb Green Isaac, Executive Director,
Relief International Africa