By Nkechi Eze
Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has attributed the elevation of the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Rilwan Disu, to the professionalism, dedication and commitment to duty he demonstrated while serving as Commissioner of Police in the state.
Fubara stated this on Tuesday when Disu paid a courtesy visit to the Government House in Port Harcourt, describing his return to Rivers State in a higher capacity as a moment of pride and fulfilment.
According to an official statement signed by Onwuka Nzeshi, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Fubara said Disu served during one of the most difficult periods in the state’s political history but remained professional, balanced and committed to his constitutional responsibilities.
“I feel very happy that somebody who left here in a very difficult situation, in a very trying time, is here today visiting us in a higher capacity. Honestly, I feel very happy,” the governor said.
He commended the IGP for maintaining professionalism at the peak of the political crisis, noting that his ability to discharge his duties despite the prevailing challenges contributed to his emergence as the country’s number one police officer.
“While he was here as Commissioner of Police, it was at the peak of a crisis, but I can tell you that he did his work not minding the situation. He tried as much as he could to balance all areas.
“So, I want to thank you for serving us well, and that service is what propelled you to this very exalted position that you occupy today,” Fubara said.
The governor described Disu’s visit as a homecoming, stressing that anyone who serves a community meritoriously becomes part of its history.
He added that the IGP’s contributions during his tenure as Commissioner of Police in Rivers State would remain part of the historical record of his administration.
Fubara also noted that Disu assumed the nation’s highest police office at a challenging period, particularly with the 2027 general elections approaching.
He expressed confidence that the police chief would overcome the challenges ahead, praying for divine guidance and strength in the discharge of his responsibilities.
“You are taking this new office at a very difficult time too, considering the challenges we are already facing in this country and the one we are about to enter into, which is the election. I strongly believe that God will give you the grace to surmount that challenge,” he said.
The governor assured the Nigeria Police Force of the Rivers State Government’s continued support and cooperation in maintaining law and order.
He also prayed for the success of the IGP, expressing the hope that his tenure would bring greater accomplishments and honour.
Earlier, Disu said his visit was an opportunity to appreciate Fubara and the people of Rivers State for their cooperation and support during his tenure as Commissioner of Police.
The IGP explained that he was also in Port Harcourt to attend the book launch of Dame Stella Okuyiga, a retired Deputy Commissioner of Police and one of the first 20 women to join the Nigeria Police Force, whom he described as a living monument at 94.
He commended the people of Rivers State for their cooperation in sustaining peace and thanked the governor for the support he received while serving in the state, as well as the continued assistance being extended to his successor.
Disu stressed that effective policing would be difficult without the cooperation of the state government, adding that other security agencies had also asked him to convey their appreciation to Fubara for his support to the security sector.
He reiterated the importance of collaboration between the police, the state government and other security agencies in addressing security challenges and sustaining peace in Rivers State.
