Police Withdraw from Rivers Local Government Elections Following Court Ruling

The Rivers State Police Command has announced that it will not participate in the upcoming local government elections scheduled for October 5, 2024. This decision follows a Federal High Court ruling delivered on September 30, 2024, which prohibits the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies from providing security for the elections.

Background of the Court Ruling

The court’s judgement is a continuation of a legal battle that began earlier in the year. On July 19, 2024, a restraining order was issued, preventing the police and other security agencies from participating in the local government elections. The recent ruling reinforced this order, compelling the Rivers State Police Command to comply with the directive.

Superintendent Grace Iringe-Koko, spokesperson for the Rivers State Police, confirmed the command’s commitment to adhering to the court’s decision. She stated, “The Nigeria Police Force seeks to inform all law-abiding citizens and stakeholders in Rivers State about the upcoming local government election, particularly in light of recent court rulings.” 

Protests and Political Tensions

The announcement comes amid heightened political tensions in Rivers State, where members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) staged protests demanding strict compliance with the court’s ruling. Protesters, led by PDP state chairman Aaron Chukwuemeka, marched through Port Harcourt, calling for an end to what they termed unlawful electoral practices. They submitted petitions to security agencies, urging adherence to legal directives regarding the elections.

The protests reflect broader concerns about governance and electoral integrity in Rivers State, where a power struggle between current Governor Siminalayi Fubara and former Governor Nyesom Wike has intensified. The local government elections are seen as a crucial test of political control at the grassroots level.

Security Measures and Public Assurance

Despite withdrawing from election duties, Iringe-Koko assured residents that the police would remain vigilant and take necessary actions to maintain peace during the election period. She emphasized that while they would not provide security for the elections, they would not tolerate any disturbances that could threaten public safety.

“The Nigeria Police Force is dedicated to maintaining law and order and will not stand idly by in the face of potential disturbances,” she stated.

Implications for Local Governance

The withdrawal of police support raises significant concerns about the safety and legitimacy of the upcoming elections. With no official security presence, many residents fear potential violence or unrest during the electoral process. Governor Fubara has declared public holidays leading up to the elections to encourage participation but faces criticism from various quarters regarding his administration’s handling of local governance issues.

With protests ongoing and significant public concern about safety, all eyes will be on how events unfold on October 5 and what implications these elections will have for future political dynamics in Rivers State.

By Joseph Johnston,
Youth Editor,
Egogonews Hub

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