By Security Officers Are Underperforming Over Fear Of ‘Order From Above’ – Wike
The executive Governor of Rivers State, Barr Nyesom Wike has said security agencies in the country are afraid of carrying out their constitutional duties over fear of being disciplined by the hierachy.
Governor Wike briefing the press on Coronavirus updates in the State disclosed that he often pity security officers when he sees them because he knows they can’t perform their duties professionally without interference of highly placed persons in Abuja.
He noted that the gallantry efforts of the security officers could be seen when they are drafted for international duties as commendations usually pour in after the operations, but same feat can not be recorded in Nigeria due to constraint caused by ‘order from above.’
It will be recalled that the Governor had in April ordered the arrest of some oil workers who were being transported in a Police convoy. While the Governor noted that he was advised by security Forces not to arrest the workers, he ordered the arrest on the grounds that no one is above the law. It was gathered that the State Government had passed an executive order that restrict movement in and around the State in the wake of the dreaded coronavirus.
The 21 oil workers were arrested by the then Commissioner of Police who carried out the arrest in support of Military officers who helped to effect the Governor’s order. Weeks later, the Commissioner of Police was redeployed from the Rivers State by the Inspector General of Police.
