NBA Reacts to Police's Decision to Withhold Security for Rivers LGA Election
NBA Expresses Concerns Over Security
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has raised concerns over the Rivers State local government elections scheduled for 5 October. The association's apprehension follows an announcement by Grace Iringe-Koko, the Rivers State Police Public Relations Officer, stating that the police would not provide security for the elections in compliance with a Federal High Court order.
This decision has sparked controversy, especially given the critical role security forces play in ensuring peaceful and credible elections.
Court Order and Police Action
A Federal High Court in Abuja had earlier restrained the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from releasing the register of voters for Rivers State to the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC). In his ruling, Justice Peter Lifu also barred the Inspector General of Police and the State Security Service (SSS) from providing security for the elections. The ruling came in response to a suit filed by the All Progressives Congress (APC), challenging the legitimacy of the election process.
However, the NBA has argued that the court's order does not absolve the police of their constitutional duty to maintain law and order.
NBA's Position: Police Cannot Abdicate Responsibility
In a statement released on Friday, NBA President Afam Osigwe condemned the police’s decision to withhold security for the elections, describing it as a "brazen" disregard for their constitutional responsibility. He criticized the police's refusal to maintain peace during such a critical democratic exercise, stating, "The responsibility of the police to ensure peace and security in Rivers State is constitutional and cannot be restrained by any court."
Osigwe also expressed concern over reports alleging that police officers attempted to seize electoral materials from RSIEC headquarters. Such actions, he warned, pose serious risks to the credibility of the electoral process.
Legal and Democratic Implications
The NBA further highlighted the broader legal and democratic concerns arising from the police’s refusal to provide security. The association argued that this action threatens the integrity of the election, creating a dangerous environment that could lead to lawlessness.
“The refusal to provide security is not only unconstitutional but also illegal, immoral, and a dangerous signal that invites lawlessness and undermines democracy,” Osigwe stated. The NBA called on all security agencies to uphold their duties during this critical period, ensuring the protection of citizens, property, and the democratic process.
Calls for Accountability and Investigation
In light of the allegations surrounding the police’s involvement in tampering with electoral materials, the NBA has urged the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to launch an immediate investigation. The association emphasized that any officers found guilty of such misconduct should face appropriate disciplinary actions.
Governor Fubara's Confrontation with the Police
The tension over the police’s decision has also escalated into a public standoff between Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the law enforcement agency. Governor Fubara criticized the police for refusing to provide security, suggesting that their actions might be politically motivated. He implied that his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, may have had undue influence over the police’s decision.
Governor Fubara has taken a strong stance, declaring that the citizens of Rivers State would protect their voting rights in the absence of police security. He expressed frustration over the conflicting court orders from both the Rivers State High Court and the Federal High Court, which have contributed to the uncertainty surrounding the elections.
"Okay, police don’t provide security; is it the same thing as blocking the election?" Governor Fubara questioned, reaffirming his commitment to hold the elections as scheduled.
Political Acrimony Surrounding the Elections
The Rivers State local government elections have been overshadowed by political turmoil, particularly the ongoing feud between Governor Fubara and former Governor Wike. While Governor Fubara remains adamant about proceeding with the elections, both the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the People's Democratic Party (PDP) have organized protests, citing concerns over the Federal High Court’s order.
The situation in Rivers State reflects a broader challenge to the rule of law and the democratic process, as legal and political battles continue to shape the course of the upcoming elections
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