1 month ago
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The Nigerian Bar Association has expressed grave concerns over the Nigeria Police Force’s refusal to provide security for the upcoming Local Government elections in Rivers State, scheduled for Saturday.
The NBA’s reaction follows a statement issued by the state police Public Relations Officer, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, indicating that the police would not provide security during the election, purportedly in compliance with a court order.
Reacting in a statement signed by its President, Afam Osigwe, on Friday, the NBA condemned the police’s decision as a “dangerous signal that invites lawlessness and undermines democracy.”
The association criticised the police’s stance, stating that their constitutional responsibility to protect lives, property and the democratic process cannot be abrogated by any court order.
“The Nigeria Police Force cannot shirk their responsibility to provide security in Rivers State,” Osigwe said, emphasising that the duty to maintain peace and order during elections is sacrosanct.
He added that any refusal to carry out this duty is not only unconstitutional but also illegal and immoral.
The NBA further highlighted reports alleging that certain police officers had attempted to tamper with electoral materials at the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission office during the night.
The association demanded a thorough investigation into these allegations, urging the Inspector General of Police to take swift disciplinary action against any officers involved in such unlawful activities.
“The refusal to provide security for the elections is an egregious violation of the Police’s constitutional duties.
“It sends a dangerous message, threatening the safety of the people of Rivers State and potentially leading to a breakdown of law and order,” the statement added.
In response to conflicting court judgments from the Rivers State High Court and the Federal High Court in Abuja regarding the conduct of the Local Government elections, the NBA described the situation as “judicial rascality”, calling for judicial coherence to avoid confusion. The association pledged to engage relevant stakeholders to resolve these conflicts and uphold the rule of law.
It also called on all security agencies to rise to the occasion, ensuring the protection of lives, property and democratic processes during the elections.
“The protection of our democracy and the upholding of the rule of law must remain the highest priority,” Osigwe stressed, underscoring the importance of law enforcement agencies in maintaining peace and security during electoral processes.
The NBA also vowed to continue monitoring the situation as it unfolds, while pressing for the Nigeria Police Force to fulfil its constitutional mandate of safeguarding the public, regardless of the court rulings at hand.
