State Of Emergency: Ex-IGP Okiro Calls For Caution, Respect For Human Rights In Rivers

Former Inspector General of Police, Sir Mike Okiro, has urged all parties involved in the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State to exercise caution, respect for human rights, and embrace peaceful dialogue in response to the recently declared state of emergency on the State.

In a press statement released on Wednesday, Okiro expressed deep concern over the political unrest that has gripped the state for nearly two years and called on all warring factions to lay down their arms in the interest of stability.

“It is crucial that we prioritise unity, dialogue, and respect for human rights to overcome this crisis,” Okiro said. “The people of Rivers State deserve peace, and this can only be achieved through constructive engagement rather than conflict.”

Drawing from his experience in brokering peace during the 2009 Niger Delta amnesty programme, which helped quell years of militantancy in the Niger Delta, Okiro emphasised the importance of collaborative efforts to restore normalcy in Rivers State.

“Just over two weeks ago, I was about forming a committee of elders and stakeholders in Rivers State to address this political impasse,” he recalled.

The former police chief reaffirmed his commitment to working with other stakeholders to chart a peaceful and sustainable path forward.

Okiro further urged all political actors to comply strictly with directives from President Bola Tinubu and work toward a resolution that prioritises the well-being of Rivers residents.

“This is not a time for political grandstanding but for collective responsibility. The safety and progress of Rivers State must be our priority,” he stated.

LEADERSHIP recalls that president Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency on Rivers State on Tuesday, March 18, 2023, following escalating political and security crieses, which he said, had impeded governance and undermined democratic structures.