The Nigerian Bar Association has voiced serious concerns regarding the Nigeria Police Force’s refusal to provide security for the upcoming local government elections in Rivers State, set for Saturday.
This response comes after a statement from the state police Public Relations Officer, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, which indicated that the police would not be providing security for the elections, allegedly in accordance with a court order.
In a statement signed by its President, Afam Osigwe, on Friday, the NBA condemned the police’s decision as a “dangerous signal that encourages lawlessness and undermines democracy.”
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The association criticized the police’s position, asserting that their constitutional duty to protect lives, property, and the democratic process cannot be overridden 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 stated that any refusal to fulfill this duty is not only unconstitutional but also illegal and immoral.
The NBA also noted reports claiming that some police officers attempted to tamper with electoral materials at the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission office overnight.
The association called for a thorough investigation into these allegations and urged the Inspector General of Police to take prompt disciplinary action against any officers involved in such misconduct.
“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 rulings from the Rivers State High Court and the Federal High Court in Abuja concerning the local government elections, the NBA labeled the situation as “judicial rascality.” The association called for greater judicial coherence to prevent confusion and pledged to work with relevant stakeholders to address these conflicts and uphold the rule of law.
Additionally, it urged all security agencies to fulfill their responsibilities by 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 pledged to keep a close watch on the situation as it develops, while urging the Nigeria Police Force to uphold its constitutional duty of protecting the public, irrespective of the court rulings involved.
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