Fubara to Rivers Police: ‘Don’t Be Partisan—It Will Backfire on You’

Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has issued a stern warning to police officers in the state who abandon their core professional responsibilities to pursue vested political interests.

Speaking at the inauguration and formal handover of 100 operational vehicles to the Rivers State Police Command on Tuesday, Fubara emphasized that the enmity fueled by such partisanship would ultimately harm those who engage in it.

The governor urged the police to focus on their duty to protect lives and property and contribute to the desired peace in the state, which he described as their patriotic duty.

He cautioned against the dangers of political partisanship, stressing that professionalism requires impartiality, especially in the sensitive area of law enforcement.

“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,” Fubara stated.

He continued, “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.”

Fubara called on the police officers to remain focused on their professional responsibilities and to disregard the current political tensions in the state, noting that “nothing will last forever.”

He advised them to conduct their operations with the highest level of professionalism to effectively protect the lives and property of Rivers State residents.

“The enmity you are creating, for those of you who are partisan, will live with you forever,” the governor warned.

“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 highlighted the significance of the 100 operational vehicles donated to the police, describing it as an achievement of the Rivers State Commissioner of Police, Olatunji Disu, who recommended the model based on his previous experience in Lagos State.

The vehicles include Toyota Sienna, Camry, and Corolla models, which are intended to enhance the mobility and response time of the police in addressing crime in the state.

Fubara emphasized the importance of supporting the police, stating, “We need to work with you so that, in the end, people can live freely, move freely, and do their businesses freely in Rivers State.”

In his remarks, Commissioner of Police Olatunji Disu expressed gratitude to Governor Fubara for the support, acknowledging that the donation of the vehicles would significantly boost the police’s operational capacity and community policing efforts.

“This act of generosity not only enhances our operational capacity but also reflects your deep concern for the citizens of the state,” Disu said.

“With your support Sir, we are reinforcing our resolve to combat crime and uphold the rule of law.”

Governor Fubara concluded by reiterating his administration’s commitment to continuing support for the police to ensure the safety and security of Rivers State.