By Ahiakwo Precious
The Nigeria Police Force has formally announced that it will not be providing security for the upcoming Local Government Chairman election in Rivers State, scheduled for October 5, 2024. This decision comes in compliance with recent court orders from the Federal High Court in Abuja, which barred the police and other security agencies from participating in the electoral process.
The Federal High Court initially issued a restraining order on July 19, 2024, prohibiting the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies from offering security for the Local Government Election. This order was reaffirmed by another judgment on September 30, 2024, and, upon advice from the Force Legal Department, the police have opted to comply fully with this latest court ruling.
Amid these developments, an opposition party has staged protests demanding full adherence to the court’s orders, while expressing their determination to ensure the law is upheld without compromise. The Nigeria Police Force has responded by urging all parties involved to use legal channels if they feel aggrieved by any decisions or actions related to the election.
Despite the withdrawal from direct election security duties, the Nigeria Police has pledged to maintain law and order and has instructed Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers, and Tactical Commanders to enforce the court’s decision and ensure compliance throughout the election period. Other security agencies have also been implored to respect the court’s judgment.
The withdrawal of the Nigeria Police Force from providing election security has raised concerns about the safety of voters and the electoral process. Citizens are being encouraged to stay peaceful, orderly, and cooperative with law enforcement to ensure that the upcoming election proceeds smoothly.
The statement, issued by SP. Grace Iringe-Koko, Police Public Relations Officer for Rivers State, was signed on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, Rivers State Police Command, on October 3, 2024.
