The Rivers State Police Command has issued a statement distancing itself from involvement in the local government elections. Read more about their position and the controversy surrounding the polls.
The Rivers State Police Command announced that it will prevent the Local Government Election planned for Saturday from taking place.
This information was revealed in a statement by the Command’s spokesperson, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, titled ‘Local Government Chairman Election Proposed for October 5th, 2024.’
In the statement, the police confirmed that they have received a restraining order which prevents them from providing security during the LGA elections.
The command also stated that it is aware of the Federal High Court Abuja’s judgment on September 30, 2024, which prohibits the Force from taking part in the election.
The statement also mentioned that the Force Legal Department has recommended prioritizing the ruling from September 30th.
The statement also mentioned the opposition PDP’s protest march, during which they demanded compliance with court orders.
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Please see the complete statement below:
Proposed Local Government Chairman Election on October 5th, 2024
The Nigeria Police Force wishes to notify all law-abiding citizens and stakeholders in Rivers State regarding the forthcoming Local Government Election, especially considering recent court decisions.
On July 19, 2024, a Federal High Court in Abuja issued an order barring the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies from offering security services during the Local Government Election.
Furthermore, on September 30, 2024, the Federal High Court in Abuja issued a ruling that once more barred the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies from taking part in the Local Government Election.
Under these circumstances, the Force Legal Department has advised the Nigeria Police Force that the Federal High Court ruling from September 30, 2024, takes precedence.
Recently, an opposition party staged a protest demanding compliance with court orders and vowed to ensure that the law is upheld. The Nigeria Police Force urges all parties to pursue appropriate legal channels if they are dissatisfied with any decisions or actions concerning the election process.
The Nigeria Police Force is committed to upholding law and order and will actively respond to any potential disturbances. Measures will be implemented to enforce the court’s orders, with instructions issued to all Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers, and Tactical Commanders to ensure complete adherence to the Federal High Court’s ruling.
Considering the aforementioned details, the Force Legal Department has advised the Nigeria Police Force to adhere to the Federal High Court’s judgment issued on September 30, 2024. This ruling prohibits them from permitting participation in, offering security for, or engaging in any way with the Rivers State Local Government Election scheduled for October 5, 2024. Additionally, all other security agencies are urged to comply with this judgment by the Federal High Court as well.
Considering these developments, the Nigeria Police Force urges all citizens to stay peaceful and orderly while cooperating with law enforcement to maintain the rule of law during this critical time.
Grace Iringe-Koko (ANIPR)
Police Public Relations Officer
Rivers State
To: Commissioner of Police, Rivers State Police Command
October 3, 2024
