“Nigerian Police Decline Security for Rivers Local Govt Elections, Citing Court Order”
By Okafor Joseph Afam
October 4, 2024
The Nigeria Police Force has reaffirmed its commitment to uphold a Federal High Court ruling that prohibits the conduct of local government elections scheduled for tomorrow in Rivers State. This decision comes in light of a restraining order issued by the Federal High Court in Abuja on July 19, 2024.
In a statement released by Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Grace Iringe-Koko, the police emphasized that the order, which prevents the police and other security agencies from providing security during the elections, remains in effect. She reiterated that the Federal High Court ruling, reaffirmed on September 30, 2024, clearly instructed the police to refrain from any involvement in the electoral process.
“We are bound by the rule of law and have been advised by our legal department to respect the court’s decision,” Iringe-Koko said, stressing the police’s obligation to comply fully with the judgment.
The opposition party recently staged a protest, demanding adherence to the court orders and expressing their intent to prevent any breach of the law. Iringe-Koko assured the public that the Nigeria Police Force encourages all parties involved to seek legal redress if they feel aggrieved by any aspect of 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,” Iringe-Koko stated. “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 Federal High Court’s ruling.”
With the elections approaching, the police’s stance highlights the judiciary’s influence on the security landscape of the political process in Rivers State.
