Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara has accused the Inspector General of Police and the Nigerian Police Force of trying to disrupt the upcoming Local Government elections scheduled for October 5, 2024.
During a press conference at the Government House in Port Harcourt, Governor Fubara expressed his deep concern that the elections should not be halted due to the interests of one politician based in Abuja.
He emphasized that all necessary preparations for the elections, including voter education and security arrangements, are complete.
The Governor reassured citizens that the process is ready and that the people have shown high confidence in the upcoming elections.
Fubara stated that the police had been informed about their responsibilities related to the elections, as mandated by a recent court ruling.
However, he alleged that police officers attacked the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) headquarters, attempting to steal sensitive electoral materials.
He described the incident as a troubling sign that the police might be acting against the interests of democracy in Rivers State.
In recounting the events of that morning, Fubara revealed he received a report about the police invasion of the RSIEC office.
He rushed to the location and found police officers trying to force their way into the premises, despite a previous notice indicating that they would withdraw.
His intervention prevented what he believed was a deliberate attempt by the police to undermine the election process.
The Governor raised serious questions about why the police would engage in such actions. He asserted that RSIEC is a state agency governed by state law, and it should not be subject to interference from the police.
He criticized the police for attempting to take control of the commission and questioned their motives for trying to stop a democratic process aimed at electing local leaders.
Fubara pointed out that while the police claimed to have a court order, that order did not authorize them to disrupt the elections.
He stressed that there was a prior ruling stating the elections must proceed with the 2023 voter register and that adequate security should be provided by the police and other agencies.
The Governor further challenged the police’s actions by asking if any court could supersede the Supreme Court of Nigeria, which ruled that all local government activities must be conducted by elected officials.
He highlighted that Rivers State’s efforts are in line with other states complying with federal directives to conduct elections.
Governor Fubara assured the people of Rivers State that the elections would go ahead as planned, despite any attempts to disrupt them.
He emphasized the importance of maintaining order and democracy, stating that the government has put everything in place to ensure a smooth electoral process.
The Governor urged the public to remain vigilant and confident that their voices will be heard.
