The Rivers State Police Command has issued a clarification regarding an encounter between the Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju, and officers of the Nkpolu Police Division during a stop-and-search operation in Mile 3, Diobu, Port Harcourt.
In a statement released on Monday, the Command refuted reports suggesting that the officers failed to recognize the Commissioner during the incident, which occurred on Friday, March 20, 2026, while he was on a routine operational tour of the state.
According to the statement, officers of the Nkpolu Division, who were carrying out stop-and-search duties in line with directives to strengthen security ahead of the Sallah celebrations, promptly recognized and saluted the CP upon sighting him, despite his being dressed in mufti.
The Commissioner, who was inspecting security deployments across the state, used the opportunity to caution some officers to maintain professionalism and civility in their interactions with members of the public. He also warned against unprofessional and unethical conduct.
Adepoju further directed the Divisional Police Officer to properly reposition personnel for improved safety and efficiency during operations.
The police chief extended similar instructions to officers stationed at key locations and worship centres as part of efforts to assess and reinforce security measures during the festive period.
The Command reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safety of lives and property, emphasizing its goal of achieving zero crime incidents before, during, and after the Sallah celebrations.
The statement was signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, Grace Iringekoko-Koko, on behalf of the Rivers State Police Command.
