The Rivers State Police Command has distanced itself and its operatives from the local government elections in the state scheduled for Saturday, October 5th.
The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) in the state, Grace Irinji Koko, disclosed this in a statement made available to journalists in Port Harcourt on Friday.
The statement said the move followed a Federal High Court ruling in Abuja that prohibited police from participating in elections or providing security.
The statement reads: “The Nigeria Police Force is committed to informing all law-abiding citizens and stakeholders in Rivers State about the upcoming local government elections, especially in light of the recent court ruling.
“On July 19, 2024, a Federal High Court in Abuja issued a restraining order prohibiting the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies from providing security during local government elections.
“Furthermore, on September 30, 2024, the Federal High Court in Abuja ruled again barring the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies from participating in local government elections.
“In the light of the circumstances, the Nigeria Police Force has received a recommendation from the Police Legal Services Authority that the judgment of the Federal High Court dated September 30, 2024, be given priority.
“Recently, opposition parties have protested and demanded compliance with court orders and expressed their determination to prevent flouting of the law.The Nigeria Police Force has issued a statement of intent to ensure that all parties are properly informed when they feel aggrieved by any decision or action related to the electoral process. We encourage you to seek legal remedies.
“The Nigeria Police Force is committed to maintaining law and order and will not stand idly by in the face of potential chaos. Necessary steps will be taken to enforce the orders of the court. All Regional commanders, divisional police officers and tactical commanders have been directed to fully comply with the Federal High Court’s judgment.
“In view of the above, the Nigeria Police Force is advised by the Armed Forces Legal Services Authority to comply with the judgment of the Federal High Court dated September 30, 2024, prohibiting the Nigeria Police Force from permitting, participating in or providing security for the following purposes: ” or to participate in the Rivers State Local Government Elections to be held on October 5, 2024. All other security agencies are also required to comply with the Federal High Court’s ruling.
“In light of these developments, the Nigeria Police Force calls on all citizens to cooperate with law enforcement agencies in maintaining peace and order and upholding the rule of law at this critical time.”
