NBA condemns police withdrawal from Rivers LG elections

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has raised alarm over the Nigeria Police Force’s decision to withdraw security from the Local Government elections scheduled for October 5, 2024, in Rivers State.

In a statement signed by the NBA President, Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, the association expressed deep concern about the police’s refusal to provide security during the elections, describing it as a violation of their constitutional duties.

The NBA noted a statement from the Rivers State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, announcing that the police would not offer security for the elections. This decision, reportedly in compliance with a court order, has been heavily criticized by the NBA, which insists that the responsibility to maintain peace and security cannot be restrained by any court ruling.

“The police have a constitutional duty to protect lives and property, and this duty extends to providing security during elections,” the NBA President stated.

Osigwe argued that even if a court order prohibited police involvement with the electoral commission, it should not prevent them from ensuring peace and order across the state.

The NBA also raised concerns over reports that some police officers allegedly attempted to steal electoral materials from the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) headquarters during the night.

The association called for an immediate investigation into the matter and urged the Inspector General of Police to discipline any officers found guilty.

Mazi Osigwe condemned the police’s decision, labeling it an “unacceptable abdication of responsibility” that threatens the integrity of the electoral process.

“This refusal to provide security during elections is not only illegal and immoral but a direct attack on the democratic rights of the people of Rivers State,” he said, warning that such actions could lead to a breakdown of law and order.

In addition, the NBA expressed frustration over the conflicting rulings from the Rivers State High Court and the Federal High Court in Abuja, describing the situation as “judicial rascality.”

The association vowed to engage relevant stakeholders to resolve the issue, stressing that consistency in the law is essential to maintaining the rule of law.

The NBA concluded by urging all security agencies to ensure the safety of lives and property during the elections and called for the police to uphold their constitutional responsibilities without fail.