Rivers crisis: Ogoni group slams IG, demands resignation

Ogonis in the Diaspora, under the aegis of Greater Ogonis in Diaspora Organisation has strongly condemned the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, in his handling of the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State and called for his immediate resignation.

President of GODO,   Chief Ambrose Kii, also threatened to drag the IG to the International Criminal Court if the police continue to take sides in the ongoing crisis in Rivers State.

He cited the excessive use of force and violence, particularly against Rivers people and disrespecting the governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, who he described as the chief security officer of the state.

In a press statement he personally signed on behalf of GODO and made available to The PUNCH on Sunday, Chief Kii expressed dismay at the IG’s alleged inaction and bias in addressing the crisis, which has plagued the state for months, resulting in loss of lives, destruction of properties, and displacement of residents.

He said, “The Inspector General of Police has failed in his duty to maintain law and order in Rivers State. His partisanship and inability to act decisively have exacerbated the situation, and we demand his resignation.”

The IG’s actions have undermined the confidence of the people in the security agencies.”

The GODO President also criticized the judiciary for issuing conflicting judgments and orders, suggesting that they are carrying out the bidding of certain individuals in government.

He added, “The judiciary, once the last hope of the people, has become compromised. Instead of upholding justice, they are issuing orders that fuel the crisis, without considering the merit or demerit of each case. This erosion of trust in the judiciary is alarming.”

Kii further took a swipe at the Independent National Electoral Commission, accusing it of being unable to act independently.

He said, “INEC has become a tool for selfish and self-centred politicians to manipulate the electoral process.

“Its inability to stand firm against external pressures undermines the democratic process. INEC must assert its independence and ensure free and fair elections.”

Kii expressed disappointment in the President’s handling of the crisis, urging him to intervene promptly, adding, “As the father of the nation, the President should call for a permanent solution to the crisis.

“Instead of allowing his loyalists to use state instruments to perpetuate violence, he should order them to respect the office of the governor. The President’s silence is deafening, and his inaction is perpetuating the crisis.”

In light of these developments, GODO is calling on the international community to intervene and support peaceful resolution of the crisis; just as it called on civil society organizations to join forces in demanding justice and peace.

It also called on well-meaning Nigerians to stand up against political violence, insisting that security agencies must remain impartial and protect citizens.

It added, “We will not stand idly by while our state is torn apart by politics and violence.

“We demand accountability, justice, and peace. The people of Rivers State deserve better.”