By Tina Amanda
The Rivers State Police Command, in collaboration with Honorary Members of the Police Officers’ Mess, has honored the immediate past Commissioner of Police, AIG Mustapha Mohammed Bala, in a grand send-forth ceremony.
The event, held on March 14, 2025, at the Rivers State Police Officers’ Mess in Old GRA, Port Harcourt, recognized AIG Bala’s contributions during his tenure before his elevation to Assistant Inspector-General of Police and deployment to Zone 6 Headquarters, Calabar.
The current Commissioner of Police, Rivers State, CP Olugbenga Adepoju, presented a gift to AIG Bala, commending his dedication to ensuring safety, peace, and stability in the state. CP Adepoju expressed gratitude for Bala’s mentorship and guidance, which positively impacted officers and men of the Command.
He also lauded the Honorary Members of the Mess for organizing the event, emphasizing their role in strengthening police-community relations.
In his remarks, AIG Bala expressed appreciation for the recognition, describing the event as a historic moment. He acknowledged the support he received from CP Adepoju, then Deputy Commissioner in charge of Operations as well as the Command’s management team and officers, which contributed to his success in maintaining peace and stability in the state.
He pointed out the importance of regular supervision of Divisional Police Officers (DPOs), Tactical Team Commanders, and other officers to ensure they operate within the law. He urged CP Adepoju to collaborate closely with stakeholders to achieve success and called on officers to extend to the new CP the same support they gave him during his tenure.
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The President of the Rivers State Police Command Honorary Members of the Officers’ Mess, Onengiyeofori Fenibo, described the event as not only a send-forth for AIG Bala but also a formal reception for CP Adepoju as the 47th Commissioner of Police in Rivers State and the unveiling of the Honorary Members’ Office.
Fenibo praised CP Adepoju for the transformation of the Police Command, stating that the new leadership reflects the principle that “the Police is our friend.” He also urged Honorary Members to support the police by reporting genuine crime cases and reaffirmed their commitment to upholding the core values of the Nigeria Police Force.
The Chairman of the occasion, Chief John Ojowuro, welcomed guests and emphasized the need for peace and unity in building a secure society.
The event was attended by senior police officers, members of the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC), the Rivers State Chapter of POWA, journalists, and other dignitaries.
High points of the ceremony included the presentation of gifts to AIG Bala and CP Adepoju, the commissioning of the Honorary Members Secretariat, and the induction of new members into the Officers’ Mess.
