Rivers State governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has commended the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, for maintaining professionalism during his tenure as Commissioner of Police in the state, describing his elevation to the nation’s top police position as recognition of his commitment to duty.
Fubara gave the commendation on Tuesday when Disu paid him a courtesy visit at Government House, Port Harcourt. He recalled the challenges that characterised the IGP’s previous service in Rivers State during a period of intense political crisis.
The governor said Disu had remained committed to his constitutional responsibilities despite the difficult circumstances, adding that his conduct had earned him the respect and recognition reflected in his current position.
“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,” he said.
Describing the visit as a homecoming, Fubara said Disu’s service to the state would remain part of its history, particularly when accounts of his administration and the political challenges of the period were documented.
He also acknowledged the challenges facing the country ahead of the 2027 general elections, expressing confidence that the police chief would receive the strength needed to discharge his responsibilities.
“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 the IGP of the Rivers State Government’s continued support and cooperation in maintaining law and order, while praying for his success in office.
Earlier, Disu said his visit was an opportunity to appreciate the governor and the people of Rivers State for their cooperation during his tenure as the state’s Commissioner of Police.
The IGP also disclosed that he was 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 and commended the people of Rivers State for their role in maintaining peace during his tenure.
Disu thanked Fubara for the support he received while serving in the state and for the continued assistance being extended to his successor.
The police chief stressed that effective policing would be difficult without the cooperation of the state government and its leadership.
He added that other security agencies had also asked him to convey their appreciation to the governor for his support for the security sector in Rivers State.
Fubara hails Disu’s professionalism, pledges support for police