CP Bala Mustapha has officially taken office as the 46th Commissioner of Police in Rivers State, promising to prioritize security and crack down on crime. In his maiden briefing on Monday, Mustapha outlined his approach to tackling issues like kidnapping, armed robbery, cultism, and oil bunkering—serious concerns for a state that is a vital economic hub in Nigeria. He pledged to employ intelligence-driven, proactive policing to address these challenges, especially in local government areas experiencing political violence
Recognizing the complexity of maintaining law and order in a state with significant economic and political interests, CP Mustapha promised zero tolerance for all forms of crime and criminality. He emphasized his commitment to restoring peace and tranquility, particularly in violence-affected regions, through collaboration with local stakeholders, including traditional rulers, community leaders, and civil society groups.
The new CP also underscored the importance of tackling corruption within the police force. He assured the public that any officer found engaging in unprofessional behavior or misconduct would face disciplinary action, reiterating his commitment to upholding justice and fairness. “We are here to uphold justice, not to be agents of oppression,” he declared, signaling a strict stance on ethical policing.
Mustapha further emphasized his intention to work closely with sister agencies, such as the Nigerian Navy, Army, and the Department of State Services (DSS), to dismantle criminal networks responsible for oil theft and other illicit activities. By leveraging these partnerships, he aims to restore security across the state’s most vulnerable regions.
In his remarks, CP Mustapha called for media collaboration, urging journalists to report responsibly and avoid sensationalism. He assured regular communication with the press and an open-door policy for clarifications on police activities, fostering transparency and accountability.
With his strategic focus on intelligence-led policing, stakeholder collaboration, and a commitment to curbing internal corruption, CP Mustapha aims to ensure a safer and more secure environment for Rivers State’s residents and businesses.
