The new commissioner of Police in Rivers State, CP Okon Effiong-Okon has expressed readiness to tackle the security challenges in the state.
He called for maximum collaboration and support from stakeholders, and sister agencies in ensuring a conducive environment for business and other activities for Rivers people.
The CP said this during his maiden press briefing at the police headquarters in Port Harcourt on Wednesday.
Effiong-Okon, who is the immediate past Commandant of Police College, Oji River, is taking over from the former CP, Friday Eboka, who has been promoted to Assistant Inspector General of Police.
He also promised to ensure violent free campaigns in the build-up to the 2023 general elections in the state, even as he called for a more robust synergy with sister agencies.
Effiong-Okon warned that thuggery and other forms of electoral violence will not be tolerated during the election season.
The 42nd commissioner of Police in the State assured that the command under his watch will make sure that the funds invested by the state are not wasted.
The new CP pledged to take as a priority, the protection and respect for human rights, especially for the civilian populace across the state.
“Environment where human rights are respected, an environment where people are free to conduct their businesses freely, and an environment where people are able to go to sleep with their eyes closed. It is an arduous task and I think it is achievable.
“Rivers State has been relatively peaceful compared with a lot of other states. We will try the best we can to maintain the level of safety and peace existing in the state. Rivers State has paid its dues, and so deserves peace.”
Continuing, he said, “So those who desire that the people of Rivers State will not have peace, themselves will not have peace. We will take the battle to them and smoke them out of their hideouts.
“Now is the best time to come out of crime and other social vices, because Rivers State will not provide a place for you to do what you want to do. We must engage in meaningful activities that will contribute to the growth and development of Rivers State.”
