The Nigeria Police Force has issued directives to its commanders to enforce a Federal High Court ruling that prohibits the upcoming local government elections in Rivers State, originally scheduled for October 5, 2024. This decision comes in light of a restraining order issued by the court, which has created a tense political climate in the region.
Earlier on Friday, Governor Siminalayi Fubara led a delegation to the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) in Port Harcourt following an alleged break-in attempt at the commission’s office. Reports indicated that officers from neighboring Abia State were involved in the attempted intrusion, aiming to seize election materials. This act was reportedly thwarted by the governor and his supporters.
The State Police Command, through its Public Relations Officer, Grace Iringe-Koko, confirmed that the police are bound by the Federal High Court’s restraining order, which was issued on July 19, 2024. This order prohibits the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies from providing security during the local government elections.
In a statement, the police reiterated the importance of adhering to the court’s ruling. ”
The statement reads:
“Additionally, on September 30, 2024, the Federal High Court in Abuja delivered a judgment that again prohibited the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies from participating in the Local Government Election.
“Given these circumstances, the Nigeria Police Force has been advised by the Force Legal Department that the ruling from the Federal High Court on September 30, 2024, takes precedence.”
Reports shows that opposition parties recently protested, calling for compliance with the court orders and expressing their commitment to ensuring that the law is upheld.
“The Nigeria Police Force encourages all parties to seek appropriate legal redress if they feel aggrieved by any decisions or actions related to the election process.
“The Nigeria Police Force is dedicated to maintaining law and order and will not stand idly by in the face of potential disturbances.
“Necessary actions will be taken to enforce the court’s orders. All Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers, and Tactical Commanders have been directed to ensure full compliance with the judgment of the Federal High Court,” the statement added.
The announcement has sparked protests from opposition parties, who are advocating for compliance with the court orders and the upholding of electoral integrity. These groups are calling for an adherence to legal protocols and due process throughout the election period.
The Nigeria Police Force has urged all stakeholders to seek legal remedies should they be dissatisfied with any aspects of the election process.
As tensions rise ahead of the scheduled elections, the police have underscored their commitment to maintaining law and order. They have instructed Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers, and Tactical Commanders to ensure full compliance with the Federal High Court’s judgment, highlighting the importance of adhering to the rule of law in the electoral framework.
The unfolding situation in Rivers State serves as a critical reminder of the interplay between law enforcement and the electoral process in Nigeria, emphasizing the judiciary’s role in upholding democratic principles.
