Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has issued a stern warning to police officers in the state, urging them to refrain from abandoning their professional responsibilities in favor of pursuing political interests amidst the ongoing political tensions. Governor Fubara’s comments came during the inauguration and official handover of 100 operational vehicles to the Rivers State Police Command, a significant event held at the Sharks Football Stadium in Port Harcourt on Tuesday. This initiative is part of his administration’s efforts to enhance the operational capabilities of the police and ensure the safety and security of the state’s residents.
In his address, Governor Fubara emphasized the critical role that police officers play in maintaining law and order, highlighting that their primary duty is to protect lives and property. He reminded the officers that their role as law enforcement agents is to contribute to peace and stability, which he described as a patriotic duty. Governor Fubara made it clear that any deviation from this duty, particularly by aligning with specific political interests, would be considered a betrayal of their professional oath and a disservice to the people of Rivers State.
“It is important for you to understand the implications of your actions,” Governor Fubara stated, addressing the police officers directly. “When you engage in actions that fuel political enmity, you are not only harming the state but also yourself in the long run. The enmity you create today will come back to haunt you. As professionals, you are trained and sworn to protect all citizens equally, without fear or favor.”
Governor Fubara’s remarks were underscored by a clear message: the role of the police is to remain impartial and uphold the law. He pointed out that police officers are engaged as professionals, and their allegiance should be to the rule of law and the safety of the public, not to any political faction. He warned against the dangers of partisanship, noting that history has shown how those who abandon their professional duties to serve political interests often face negative consequences.
“I must emphasize this because it is crucial,” he continued. “When you, CP Disu, came into Rivers State and I had my first meeting with you, I made only one request: that I would never ask you to do anything wrong, and in return, you must always do what is right. Your primary duty is to protect the lives and property of the people of Rivers State. It is not to serve any political party or individual. Partisanship will only lead to trouble. We have seen how those who chose to align themselves with political interests ended up. It did not end well for them, and it will not end well for anyone who follows that path.”
Governor Fubara’s warning extended to all officers present, as he reiterated the importance of maintaining professionalism in the face of political pressures. He urged them to consider the long-term consequences of their actions, particularly how their decisions could affect their personal lives and reputations. “Work in such a way that when your name is mentioned in this state, or when your children come here, you will not have to be afraid. Your legacy should be one of honor and integrity, not of fear and regret.”
The governor’s message also touched on the transient nature of political power, reminding the police officers that political tensions and crises are temporary, but the impact of their actions could be long-lasting. “Forget about the current political anxiety,” he advised. “Nothing lasts forever. The political landscape will change, but your integrity as a police officer must remain intact. Your responsibility is to the people, to protect their lives and property, not to involve yourself in the politics of the state. Politics will come and go, but the enmity you create by being partisan will live with you forever.”
Governor Fubara’s appeal to the police officers was a call to adhere to the core values and ethics of their profession. He stressed that the primary focus of the police should always be on maintaining peace and order, and safeguarding the welfare of the citizens of Rivers State. “I have said it before, and I am saying it again: I will never ask any of you to do what is wrong. My appeal is simple: stand firm on the ethics of your profession. Be fair to all, protect the lives and property of the people of Rivers State, and remain non-partisan.”
The governor’s address comes at a time when Rivers State, like many other parts of the country, is experiencing heightened political activity. Governor Fubara’s commitment to upholding law and order, and his insistence on non-partisanship within the police force, reflect his broader vision for a peaceful and prosperous Rivers State. By providing the police with 100 new operational vehicles, the governor is not only enhancing their capacity to perform their duties effectively but is also reinforcing the message that their role is to serve and protect, irrespective of political dynamics.
As Rivers State navigates these politically charged times, Governor Fubara’s leadership and directives to the police are crucial in ensuring that the state remains stable and secure. His call for professionalism and non-partisanship within the police force is a reminder that the law must be upheld above all else, and that the primary duty of law enforcement is to the people, not to politics.
