The police in Rivers State have announced they will not provide security for Saturday’s local elections.
Police spokesperson Grace Iringe-Koko, in a statement dated 3 October and posted on Facebook around 1 a.m. on Friday, said the action complies with a Federal High Court order.
Citing two Federal High Court orders from 19 July and 30 September, Mrs. Iringe-Koko, a superintendent of police, stated, “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.”
She added, “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 letter, although dated 3 October, was posted on Facebook around the same time Governor Siminalayi Fubara visited the headquarters of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC). The governor allegedly foiled an attempt by the police to “cart away” sensitive materials meant for the election.
