Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has attributed the elevation of Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Rilwan Disu, to the highest position in the Nigeria Police Force to his professionalism, impartiality and commitment to duty while serving as Commissioner of Police in Rivers State.
Fubara said Disu demonstrated professionalism and remained committed to his constitutional responsibilities at the peak of the political crisis in the state, adding that his conduct during the challenging period contributed to his emergence as the nation’s police chief.
Governor Fubara stated this on Tuesday when Disu paid a courtesy visit to Government House, Port Harcourt, expressing delight that the former state police commissioner had returned to Rivers in a higher capacity after serving during a difficult period.
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Onwuka Nzeshi, Fubara praised Disu’s professionalism and dedication to duty while serving as Commissioner of Police in Rivers State.
“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.
“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, noting that anyone who serves a place meritoriously becomes part of its history.
He said posterity would remember the IGP for his role during the political crisis and the part he played during his administration whenever the history of the period was written.
Fubara also noted that Disu was assuming leadership of the Nigeria Police Force at a challenging time for the country, particularly with the 2027 general elections approaching.
He expressed confidence that the IGP would receive the divine guidance and strength needed to navigate the challenges and discharge his responsibilities effectively.
“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.
Fubara assured Disu of the Rivers State Government’s continued support and cooperation in maintaining law and order, while praying for a successful tenure.
The governor expressed the hope that the IGP “will never end in shame but will continue to progress to a greater glory.”
Earlier, Disu said his visit to Rivers State was to express appreciation to Fubara and the people of the state for their cooperation during his tenure as Commissioner of Police.
The IGP disclosed 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.
He described the 94-year-old retired police officer as a living monument, acknowledging her contributions to the force.
Disu commended the people of Rivers State for allowing peace to reign and thanked Fubara for the support he received during his tenure as commissioner, as well as the continued assistance being extended to his successor.
He noted that effective policing would be difficult without the cooperation of the state government and the governor.
The IGP added that other sister security agencies had also asked him to convey their appreciation to Fubara for his support to the security sector in Rivers State
