The Rivers State Police Command has announced its intention to fully comply with the Federal High Court’s ruling in Abuja, which prohibits the force from participating in the local government election scheduled for October 5 in the state.
This declaration follows a protest led by prominent members of the Peoples Democratic Party, including state party chairman Aaron Chukwuemeka, who rallied with supporters against the planned election organized by the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission.
The demonstrators made their way to the headquarters of both the Department of State Services and the State Police Command in Port Harcourt, urging these agencies to adhere to the existing court order and refrain from involvement in the electoral process. During the protest, Aaron presented a petition along with a copy of the court’s ruling to officials at both locations.
In response, the police clarified that while they are committed to following the court’s directive, this does not mean they will ignore potential security threats or breaches during the election period.
The spokesperson for the Rivers State Police Command, Grace Iringe-Koko, made this announcement in a statement released on Thursday in Port Harcourt.
Superintendent Iringe-Koko explained that the decision follows directives from the Force Legal Department, emphasizing that the ruling issued by the Federal High Court on September 30, 2024, holds priority.
She affirmed that the police command has thoroughly reviewed both court judgments it received that restrict their participation in the election and urged citizens to maintain peace during the electoral process.
The statement read, “The Nigeria Police Force seeks to inform all law-abiding citizens and stakeholders in Rivers State about the upcoming local government election, particularly in the light of recent court rulings.
“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.
“Recently, an opposition party protested, calling for adherence to the court orders and expressing their determination to prevent any disregard for the law.
“The Nigeria Police Force encourages all parties to seek appropriate legal redress if they feel aggrieved by any decisions or actions related to the election process.
“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.”
It added, “In view of the above, the Nigeria Police Force has been advised by the Force Legal Department to comply with the judgment of the Federal High Court dated September 30, 2024, which bars the Nigeria Police from allowing, participating in, providing security for, or taking part in the Rivers State Local Government Election on October 5, 2024.
“All other security agencies are also implored to comply with the Federal High Court judgment.
“In light of these developments, the Nigeria Police Force calls on all citizens to remain peaceful and orderly and to cooperate with law enforcement in upholding the rule of law during this crucial period.”
