The Rivers State Police Command has announced that it will not support the Local Government Election scheduled for Saturday, October 5, 2024, following a Federal High Court ruling.
In a statement issued by the Command’s spokesperson, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, the police confirmed they had received a restraining order that prevents them from providing security for the elections.
The police statement highlighted a recent court judgment from September 30, 2024, which reinforced an earlier order from July 19, 2024, both of which bar the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies from being involved in the election.
“On July 19, 2024, a Federal High Court in Abuja issued a restraining order preventing the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies from providing security during the Local Government Election.”
“Additionally, on September 30, 2024, the Federal High Court in Abuja delivered a judgment that again prohibited the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies from participating in the Local Government Election.’
“Given these circumstances, 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.”
“The ruling from September 30 takes precedence, and the police have been advised by the Force Legal Department to comply fully,” Iringe-Koko stated.
The announcement came after a protest by members of the opposition party, the People’s Democratic Party, in Rivers State.
The protestors called for the cancellation of the election and urged compliance with the court orders. The police acknowledged the protest, urging all parties involved to seek legal redress if they feel aggrieved.
The Command emphasized that maintaining law and order remains its priority and that all police officers are directed to uphold the Federal High Court’s ruling. “The Nigeria Police Force will not tolerate any actions that could lead to disturbances during this period. All Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers, and Tactical Commanders are to ensure full compliance with the judgment,” the statement added.
The Rivers State Police also urged citizens to stay peaceful and cooperate with law enforcement as they work to uphold the rule of law during this sensitive period.
