Rivers: Don’t Play Politics Here, Gov Wike Tells New GOC

Governor Nyesom Wike has advised the new General Officer Commanding 6 Division of the Nigeria Army, Major General Olu Irefin, not involve himself in politics but keep to the task of providing security in Rivers State.

Gov Wike gave the advice when the GOC paid him a courtesy visit at Government House, Port Harcourt on Thursday.

Wike, who noted that the prevalence of insecurity in every state of the country seemed to have overwhelmed the military, however said the situation in Rivers State was different because of the robust collaboration between his administration and the security agencies.

“Our determination is to keep the state safe but development also attracts criminality, so we can’t say we are totally free.

“There are still pockets of criminal elements. So, as a professional whose role is to defend the territorial integrity of the country, fight crime and do not involve in politics.

“We are willing to collaborate with you as a government because security is important for us. Just let us know what you require to succeed in the fight against criminality.

“That way, we will be partners in progress and make the State safe for all residents”, he stated.

Earlier, the GOC commended Wike for his developmental strides.

He said on assumption of duties, his commanders told him that they had enjoyed tremendous support from the state government in the discharge of duties.

He pledged to sustain the existing collaboration in protecting lives and property in the State.