Rivers State Police Command has explained why it deployed about 30 armed policemen and Armoured Personnel Carriers to the residential quarters of members of the state House of Assembly in Port Harcourt.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the deployment has heightened political tension in the state amidst face-off between some lawmakers and the state Governor, Siminalayi Fubara.
The factional Speaker of the Assembly, Martins Amaewhule, has alleged that the governor was plotting to demolish the houses, a claim dismissed by Fubara.
The governor had visited the residential quarters on Wednesday, during which he told journalists that he was there for an on-the-spot assessment of the condition of the houses for possible rehabilitation.
The Chairman of the Caretaker Committee of the state All Progressive Congress, Tony Okocha, recently urged the lawmakers to initiate impeachment proceedings against the governor.
The Police Command, however, said that the deployment of personnel to the assembly quarters was for the purpose of upholding peace, not partisan interest.
SP Grace Iringe-Koko, the command spokesperson, in a statement in Port Harcourt on Saturday, said that the recent political developments prompted the deployment.
“Our deployment in the area is solely aimed at ensuring peace and preventing any possible breakdown of order.
“We assure the public that there is no cause for alarm and all individuals are encouraged to carry on with their lawful activities without fear.
“Cooperation from the public is greatly appreciated as the police command strives to maintain a safe and secure environment for all,” she stated.
