Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has urged the newly appointed Commissioner of Police (CP) for Rivers State, Olugbenga Adepoju, to remain apolitical and avoid engagements that could compromise his duties to the state.
During a courtesy visit to the Government House in Port Harcourt on Friday, Governor Fubara emphasized the importance of professionalism, advising the CP to steer clear of secret meetings that could lead to decisions detrimental to the people of Rivers State.
Governor’s Advice to the New CP
“You are not new to our state,” Governor Fubara said, referencing CP Adepoju’s previous role in operations within Rivers. “Your duty is to work with the government and other sister agencies to maintain law and order, protect lives and property, and remain apolitical. Do not attend nocturnal meetings that could lead to actions against Rivers people.”
The Governor tasked the CP with addressing pressing security issues, particularly cultism and kidnappings in boundary communities, which have plagued the state. He stressed the need for a holistic approach to tackle the root causes of these challenges, especially in schools where cultism is taking root among youths.
“We may not completely eliminate these issues, but we must find ways to significantly reduce them,” Fubara said. He also assured the CP of the state government’s support, highlighting the collaborative success with the former CP.
CP Adepoju’s Commitment
In his response, CP Olugbenga Adepoju expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve as Rivers State’s 47th Commissioner of Police. He acknowledged the complexity of the state’s security challenges and pledged to address them with professionalism and innovation.
“We will enhance intelligence gathering, strengthen our rapid response mechanisms, and build trust with the community we serve,” Adepoju said. He reassured that the police command would remain apolitical, focusing solely on upholding law and order while engaging stakeholders with professionalism and integrity.
Officers Decorated with New Ranks
Following the visit, Governor Fubara and CP Adepoju decorated two officers with their new ranks of Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP). The honorees, Anthony Peter, Personal Security Officer to the Governor, and John Wakama, Provost Marshal at Government House, were promoted from Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP 1) to DSP.
The ceremony, held at the Government House, was attended by the officers’ families, adding a personal touch to the occasion.
Governor Fubara concluded by reiterating the state’s commitment to supporting the police in ensuring a safer and more secure Rivers State.