The Nigerian Police Force has revealed its plans to foil the Rivers State Local Government elections slated for 5th October 2024. The police have directed its commanders to enforce a Federal High Court ruling prohibiting security agencies from participating in the election. This decision follows a restraining order from the Federal High Court in Abuja, which barred the Nigeria Police Force and other security bodies from providing security during the election. The court reaffirmed this ruling on September 30, 2024, confirming that the police should not participate.
Earlier on Friday, Governor Siminlayi Fubara led a strong delegation to the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) office in Port Harcourt after an alleged attempt to break into the facility and steal materials intended for the Saturday LG election.
Policemen reportedly deployed from neighboring Abia State were said to have carried out the attempted break-in, which was thwarted by the governor and his supporters.
In a statement issued by Police Public Relations Officer Grace Iringe-Koko, the police emphasized their commitment to upholding the law. “The Nigeria Police Force has been advised by the Force Legal Department to comply with the judgment of the Federal High Court dated September 30, 2024,” Iringe-Koko stated.
The statement highlighted that the court ruling prohibits police involvement in the election and that this decision must be respected. An opposition party had recently protested, demanding that the court orders be followed, expressing their determination to prevent any violation of the law.
The Nigeria Police urged anyone dissatisfied with the election process to seek legal redress and assured that they are committed to maintaining peace and order. Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers, and Tactical Commanders have been directed to fully enforce the court’s judgment.
Reports show that opposition parties recently protested, calling for compliance with the court orders and expressing their commitment to ensuring that the law is upheld.
Furthermore, the police urged all parties to pursue legal redress if they are dissatisfied with any decisions or actions related to the election process.
