Ibas Cites Averting Crimes and Criminality as the Reason for Urging the Paramilitary in Rivers to Boost Patrols

The Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.), has called on paramilitary agencies in the state to intensify patrols to prevent crime and criminality. He emphasized the importance of collaboration among various security agencies to maintain peace and stability, stressing that meaningful development can only thrive in a secure environment. Ibas made this statement during a meeting with heads of paramilitary organizations at the Government House in Port Harcourt on Friday.

He acknowledged their contributions to maintaining law and order in Rivers State and urged them to participate actively in joint operations designed to weaken the capabilities of criminal elements. According to Ibas, criminals gain ground when law-abiding citizens are unable to conduct their legitimate businesses freely. He, therefore, stressed the need for security agencies to prioritize the interests of the people and the nation while carrying out their duties.

Ibas directed the paramilitary agencies to ramp up patrols, warning that allowing criminals to access resources would only embolden them. He further emphasized the need for enhanced intelligence gathering and information-sharing among security agencies, including the military, the Department of State Services (DSS), and local intelligence networks. Additionally, he condemned the presence of unregistered and concealed license plate vehicles on the roads, stating that such practices pose significant security threats. He tasked the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), in collaboration with the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and the Police, to curb such activities.

Highlighting the dangers posed by overturned tankers on roads, Ibas called for stricter enforcement of traffic regulations to minimize accidents and fatalities. He underscored the importance of security agencies engaging with communities to enhance local policing efforts, ensuring that residents in both urban and rural areas remain informed about security matters.

The administrator also urged security agencies to provide operational support to their colleagues in law enforcement while engaging in public awareness campaigns. He suggested that the state’s Ministry of Information coordinate these efforts to educate the grassroots on the significance of maintaining a secure environment. Appreciating the efforts of paramilitary agencies over the years, Ibas reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting their operations to achieve optimal security in Rivers State.

The Controller of the Nigeria Correctional Service, Rivers State Command, Mr. Felix Madumere, expressed gratitude for the administrator’s insights, noting that the guidance would greatly aid their daily operations. He assured Ibas of their continued cooperation and pledged to support his administration in fostering a lasting legacy of safety and security in the state.