The Inspector-General of Police, Usman Alkali Baba has directed the Plateau State Commissioner of Police, Bartholomew Onyeka, to seal up 17 Local Government Area Council secretariats in the state. This is coming after the State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang okayed the suspension of council chairmen and councilors governing the affected lgs, due to financial misconduct that required investigation. This move was met with fierce opposition from the suspended officials, all members of the All Progressives Congress, who rejected their suspension and insisted on maintaining their roles.
The order was contained in a statement issued by the State Police Command Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Alfred Alabo, who said the decision of the Police became necessary as a result of tension around the leadership of the Local Government Areas, and the possible threat that supporters of the sacked Local Government chairmen were posing to critical infrastructure, lives, and properties in the State.
According to the statement, “The Inspector General of Police, IGP Usman Alkali Baba, has ordered the Plateau State Commissioner of Police, CP Bartholomew Onyeka, to seal up all the 17 local government secretariats of the state.
“This has become necessary as a result of tensions around the leadership of the local government areas and the possible threat that supporters and local government chairmen are posing to critical infrastructure, lives, and properties in the state. The decision to take this action is in accordance with the exercise of our constitutional responsibility as the Nigeria Police Force, to ensure that the above doesn’t hold sway on the Plateau.
“To this end, the Nigeria Police Force on the Plateau cannot sit down and watch things go wrong under our watch, hence the need to make this critical decision of sealing up the local government secretariats.
“The command, therefore, warns that it will not take it lightly with anyone who tries to disrupt this process or causes any confusion around the Local Government Secretariats, as we will ensure that the law takes its full course on such persons.
“The CP commends the good people of Plateau State for their continued understanding and urges everyone to go about their lawful businesses as we all give peace a chance on the Plateau.”
