Rivers Police Chief Orders Removal of Illegal Roadblocks

Rivers State Commissioner of Police Olugbenga Adepoju has ordered the immediate dismantling of unauthorized police roadblocks on highways throughout the state. This action is part of a broader effort to enforce directives from Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Rilwan Disu, who has banned extortion, illegal checkpoints, and misconduct by officers.

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We have directed that nobody should block the road. Officers should position themselves strategically and carry out stop-and-search operations without obstructing traffic.

During a statewide inspection of checkpoints, Adepoju emphasized the need for officers to adhere to approved policing standards and maintain professionalism. He stated that operatives should conduct strategic stop-and-search operations without obstructing traffic, noting that compliance had been encouraging.

The Commissioner stressed that the monitoring exercise aligns with the Inspector-General's directive for officers to be properly dressed, wear visible name tags, and refrain from extorting the public. He warned that officers not complying with these directives, including those not properly uniformed or lacking name tags, would face disciplinary measures.

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We are here in compliance with the directive of the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, who directed that we go round and monitor officers on duty to ensure they are doing well, are properly dressed, and have their name tags displayed.

Adepoju affirmed that routine inspections are crucial for ensuring officers perform their duties professionally and in accordance with the Force's operational guidelines. He indicated that the enforcement exercise would be sustained.

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And also to ensure that they are not extorting members of the public.