The Nigeria Police Force has declared its intention to prevent the scheduled local government elections in Rivers State, following a Federal High Court ruling prohibiting the polls. This development comes as tensions rise ahead of the elections, which were set for Saturday, October 5, 2024.
Early Friday morning, Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara led a delegation to the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) office in Port Harcourt to thwart an alleged attempt to break into the facility and seize election materials. It is reported that policemen from neighboring Abia State were involved in the operation, which was stopped by Governor Fubara and his supporters.
The Rivers State Police Command, through its Public Relations Officer Grace Iringe-Koko, confirmed the Federal High Court ruling issued on July 19, 2024, which barred the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies from providing security for the election. A subsequent court judgment on September 30, 2024, reaffirmed this prohibition, instructing the police not to participate in the electoral process.
The police emphasized their commitment to enforcing the court’s decision, with all commanders and officers directed to ensure full compliance. The statement urged parties dissatisfied with the election process to seek legal redress and assured that necessary actions would be taken to maintain law and order. Opposition parties have also protested, calling for strict adherence to the court’s ruling.
As the situation unfolds, all eyes are on the outcome of the standoff between the Rivers State government and law enforcement.
News Editor