Urgent: Security Agencies Unite To Restore Peace In Rivers State

Securing Rivers State: A Unified Effort

In response to the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, the Nigerian Police Force, the Nigerian Army, Navy, Air Force, and other allied security agencies have reaffirmed their commitment to safeguarding critical national infrastructure and ensuring the security of lives and property. This is a coordinated effort aimed at stabilizing the region and ensuring peace returns to the state.

Joint Press Briefing Highlights Successes

During a joint press briefing held in Port Harcourt, the Commissioner of Police in Rivers State, Olugbenga Adepoju, praised the collaborative efforts of the security agencies in maintaining peace and order. He emphasized that the joint patrols conducted by the Police, Armed Forces, and other agencies have been instrumental in preserving the current calm in the state. Adepoju expressed gratitude for the hard work and dedication of all involved, stating, “Our collective effort has been instrumental in sustaining the peace and calm currently enjoyed in our dear state.”

A Necessary Measure to Prevent Chaos

Commissioner Adepoju further explained that the current security measures are a necessary response to the potential for lawlessness in the region. He noted that the proactive policing strategy was implemented due to the threat posed by criminals seeking to exploit the unstable environment. Adepoju assured the people of Rivers State that these measures are temporary and will lead to a more peaceful and secure state in the near future. He stated, “This phase of security activities is aimed at preventing any potential breakdown of law and order. We assure the good people of Rivers State that this is just a temporary phase, and soon we will all witness a more peaceful and secured state.”

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Protecting Vital National Assets

A crucial part of the ongoing security operations involves the protection of critical national assets, particularly those in the oil sector. Adepoju urged the residents of Rivers State to take collective responsibility in safeguarding these assets from threats such as oil thieves, vandals, kidnappers, cultists, and other criminals. He emphasized, “These assets are vital, not only to the people of Rivers State but to the entire nation. Consequently, it is the collective responsibility of all well-meaning residents of the state to ensure their protection.”

Recent Successes in Combating Criminal Activities

According to Adepoju, security forces have successfully thwarted several criminal attempts in recent weeks. On March 16, 2025, a swift response by the security agencies at Aluu-Rumuekpe in Ikwerre LGA led to the death of vandals attempting to detonate a pipeline. Adepoju confirmed, “The joint efforts of the security agencies in Rivers State have thwarted attempts by miscreants to vandalize pipelines, which led to the death of the vandals in the process of trying to detonate a pipeline as a result of the quick response of the state security agencies.”

Another significant operation occurred on March 21, 2025, when security forces stormed a kidnappers’ hideout along Omoku Road in Ahoada East LGA. Eight male suspects were arrested, and six male victims were rescued. The operation yielded significant items, including firearms, motorcycles, and communication equipment. Additionally, on March 19, 2025, two suspects were apprehended in Onelga LGA with four dynamites, four switches, detonating pods, and other Improvised Explosive Devices (IED) materials.

Destruction of Illegal Refining Sites

Adepoju also revealed that security forces have destroyed 30 illegal refining sites, 55 ovens, 20 reservoirs, and 50 dug-out pits. The operation resulted in the seizure of 100,000 liters of stolen crude oil and about 10,000 liters of illegally refined AGO. These efforts demonstrate the determination of the security agencies to combat illegal activities and restore order in the state.

Call for Public Cooperation

Finally, Commissioner Adepoju called on the public to assist security agencies by providing credible intelligence on criminal activities. He encouraged citizens to report any suspicious activities to the nearest security agency, emphasizing the importance of community cooperation in ensuring the safety and security of the state. Adepoju said, “The ideal thing is for the people of Rivers State to support the security agencies with credible intelligence. We call on members of the public to cooperate with us and help us identify and apprehend those involved in criminal activities.”