Police Sack 6 Personnel Attached To Wike

The sacked policemen, an Inspector and five sergeants, were dismissed over alleged misuse of firearms despite warnings from the inspector general of police, Ibrahim Idris.

The officers are: AP/No.177893, ex. Inspr. Eyong Victor; F/No. 400872 ex. Sgt Peter Ekpo; F/No.374585 ex. Sgt Oguni Goodluck; F/No. 385870 ex. Sgt. Orji Nwoke; F/No. 234216 ex. Sgt. Okpe Ezekiel; F/No. 437983 ex. Sgt. Tanko Akor.

The police spokesperson, Dan Awunah, who made the revelation during a press briefing in Abuja, said: “In the case of the recent parliamentary election in Rivers State, the IGP’s resolve to secure the process, was reciprocated with the unethical conduct of some bad eggs within the force.”

According to Awunah, the officers were found guilty of escorting their principals, public office holders and politicians to polling units during the election.

“These aforementioned police personnel while in the convoy of His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Rivers state Barr. Nyesom Wike on the date of election, 10th December, 2016 misused the firearms in their possession contrary to the provisions of Force Order 237.

“The service personnel became overzealous, took laws into their hands and opened fire, causing panic in the crowd.

“They joined in storming the Port Harcourt City Council Secretariat and prevented the movement of election results of Emouha polling unit to the appropriate collation centre designated by INEC, in flagrant disregard and disobedience to senior Police officers present at the venue.

“The IGP wishes to restate the commitment of the force to carry out its constitutional obligations in accordance to the law of the land before, during and after every election in Nigeria. This will be done in a very professional manner bearing in mind the need not only to be unbiased but to be seen by members of the public as responsive and responsible security agency in election security in the country.

“Nigerians should rest assured that the IGP and indeed the entire management team of the Force will not be deterred in its resolve to rid the Nigeria Police Force of personnel who indulge in actions or inactions that amount to unprofessional and serious misconduct.

“The IGP commends all officers and men of the Force for their dedication, commitment, sacrifice, hard work and display of utmost professionalism in their service to the country despite daunting challenges. Without doubts, our sacrifices and sincerity of purpose will be commensurately rewarded,” Awunah said.