BREAKING: Police Withdraws personnel from Rivers LG elections, give reasons

The Rivers State Police Command has announced its withdrawal from providing security for the upcoming Local Government Election scheduled for October 5, 2024.

This decision follows a Federal High Court ruling that prohibits the Nigeria Police Force from participating in the election.

In a statement issued by the Command’s spokesperson, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, she emphasized that the court’s judgment, delivered on September 30, 2024, reinforced an earlier restraining order from July 19, 2024, barring the police and other security agencies from overseeing the election.

“The Federal High Court in Abuja initially issued a restraining order on July 19, 2024, and on September 30, 2024, delivered another judgment reaffirming the prohibition against the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies from participating in the Local Government Election,” Iringe-Koko stated.

The Command’s Legal Department has advised compliance with the court’s directives, and all Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers, and Tactical Commanders have been instructed to ensure adherence.

Furthermore, Iringe-Koko highlighted recent protests by an opposition party demanding respect for the court’s orders. She urged any aggrieved parties to seek legal remedies rather than resorting to unlawful actions.

The Rivers State Police Command remains committed to enforcing the court’s decision and maintaining order during the election process.