Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State commended the role of police in maintaining security, stating that even “the worst police officer is better than the best criminal,” News About Nigeria reports.
He shared these views on Friday while hosting Commissioner of Police Mustapha Mohammed, recently assigned to the Rivers State Command, at the Government House in Port Harcourt.
Fubara said that his administration harbours no grievances against the Nigeria Police Force, despite challenges posed by a few officers.
“Despite unprofessionalism by some officers, we are steadfast in our partnership with the police to secure the lives and property of Rivers citizens,” Fubara said.
He added that cooperation between the police, other agencies, and the government is essential for effective crime prevention.
Addressing Commissioner Mohammed directly, Fubara expressed his administration’s commitment to support the police. “We welcome you wholeheartedly,” he said. “Even with past differences, our priority remains the security of lives and our state.”
The governor encouraged officers to maintain integrity, reminding them that actions taken now impact their future lives post-service.
He warned against any unprofessional conduct that could lead to regret later, saying, “Work with integrity so you won’t live in fear after service.”
Governor Fubara also noted that Rivers State is a very peaceful state, urging Commissioner Mohammed to take up his role in securing residents’ safety.
“We cannot completely eliminate crime; that is the truth. In every developing society, crime is one of the issues, but we can do our best to reduce the level of crime, and we will support you.
“Let us know your plans towards that because you must have a strategy in place. We will provide you with all the necessary support,” the governor said.
In response, CP Mustapha Mohammed appreciated the warm reception, stating that he visited the governor to formally report and seek collaborative efforts to keep Rivers safe.
