Nyesom Wike, the governor of Rivers, gave N70 million in total to the families of the three police officers who were killed in an attack at the Rumuokoro flyover bridge in Port Harcourt, the state’s capital, on Tuesday.
A police officer who was also injured in the incident benefited from the generosity as well.
While each widow of a slain police officer received N20 million, the injured officer who is still serving received N10 million.
While presenting the cheque to the families of the slain officers on behalf of Wike, Secretary to Rivers State Government, Dr. Tammy Danagogo, commiserated with the police Command and families over the death of their colleagues and their loved ones.
Dagogo said the donation was part of the officers’ welfare policy introduced by the Wike administration to encourage and support officers and their families in the face of fatality while on active duty.
According to him, the gesture is also to make certain that men and women of the various security agencies who work hard to guarantee the security of Rivers State are not left alone when they suffer casualty.
“We are here to let you know that the officers did not die in vain, when you serve this country and serve this state, it is never in vain. Whatever situation you find yourselves in, we as a government must identify with you.
“Your husbands died while serving this country and the state. Rivers State Government truly appreciates their efforts and contributions.
“We know this token will not wipe away your tears or replace your husbands, but we believe that it will impress upon your mind that your husbands died while working for a worthy cause and even God Almighty will not abandon those they left behind,” he said.
Wike also admonished the injured officer to keep fate as the state government has taken up the expenses incurred in his recovery journey.
Wike said that residents of Rivers State can testify that indeed the efforts of the police and other security agencies in the state are yielding dividends in terms of peace and security.
Speaking at the event, the Commissioner of Police, Rivers State Command, CP Okon Effiong, commended the Governor for honouring the families of the slain officers and standing tall with the police command in its trying times.
Effiong advised the beneficiaries to judiciously use the token to the benefit of their families.
Mrs. Maria John, the widow of late Inspector Enekele John, prayed for the blessings of God on Gov. Wike for remembering the widows and supporting the families of the slain officers.