The Nigeria Police Force has announced its commitment to enforce a Federal High Court ruling that prohibits the upcoming local government elections scheduled for tomorrow in Rivers State. This comes after Governor Siminalayi Fubara led a delegation to the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) office in Port Harcourt, responding to an alleged attempt by police officers from neighboring Abia State to break into the facility and seize materials intended for the election.
In a statement, Grace Iringe-Koko, the State Police Command Public Relations Officer, clarified that a Federal High Court in Abuja issued a restraining order on July 19, 2024, which prevents the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies from providing security during the elections. The police have been advised by their Force Legal Department to adhere to this ruling, which was reiterated in a judgment on September 30, 2024.
The statement highlighted the legal basis for their actions, stating: “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.”
Opposition parties have protested recently, demanding compliance with the court orders and expressing their determination to uphold the law.
The police emphasized their role in maintaining law and order, urging all parties involved to seek legal redress if they are dissatisfied with any election-related decisions or actions. They reiterated their commitment to ensuring compliance with the court’s orders, stating: “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 situation remains tense as the police prepare to enforce the court’s ruling and prevent the elections from proceeding as planned.
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