The Rivers State Police Command says it has commenced an investigation into the alleged assault on journalists by some police officers during last Saturday’s peaceful protest against the declaration of a state of emergency in the state.
Police Public Relations Officer in the state, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday.
The state council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) had issued a 14-day ultimatum to the police to apologize to the union or risk boycott of its activities by journalists in the state.
“The Rivers State Police Command has received with concern the complaints by our strategic partner, the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), over the alleged assault on its members by some police officers during a recent planned protest.
“The command unequivocally condemns this unfortunate incident and has commenced a full and thorough investigation into the matter.
“Preliminary findings have led to the identification of some personnel who are currently undergoing questioning as part of the ongoing inquiry
“It is important to clarify that the command was aware of the planned protest and proactively deployed personnel to provide adequate security cover for all citizens, residents, peace loving members of the public, and most importantly, the press.
“Our presence at the scene was instrumental in preventing criminal elements from hijacking what was intended to be a peaceful protest.
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“The Rivers State Police Command holds journalists in the highest regard, recognizing their critical role in fostering peace, security, and development through their reportage and public enlightenment efforts.
“We value the longstanding relationship and collaborative efforts shared with the NUJ and regret any actions that may have strained this bond.
“We assure the NUJ, its members, and the general public that this matter will be treated with the seriousness it deserves and will not be swept under the carpet.
“Upon the conclusion of investigations, the command will make public its findings and the measures taken to address the situation,” the police said.
The command dissociated itself from any form of overzealous or unprofessional conduct by police officers, and reiterated its zero-tolerance stance for such behaviour.
