Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun has ordered the immediate withdrawal of police personnel previously deployed to seal off the 23 local government areas in the state.

The announcement was made on Monday by Rivers State Command’s Public Relations Officer, Grace Iringe-Koko.

Iringe-Koko said the Nigeria Police Force is committed to remaining neutral and upholding democratic processes.

“The newly appointed Commissioner of Police, Bala Mustapha, has conveyed the directive for the immediate withdrawal of officers from all Local Government Secretariats in Rivers State,” part of the statement read.

The command assured that police presence will only be reinstated if a crisis or breakdown of law and order occurs.

The command also urged residents to stay calm and law-abiding.