By Tina Amanda
The Nigeria Police Force has announced its decision to comply with recent court rulings that prohibit security agencies from participating in the forthcoming Local Government Chairmanship Election in Rivers State, scheduled for October 5, 2024.
In a statement issued on October 3, 2024, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, Public Relations Officer for the Rivers State Police Command, confirmed that the police will adhere to a Federal High Court ruling from September 30, 2024, which reaffirmed an earlier judgment issued on July 19, 2024.
Both rulings bar the police and other security agencies from providing security or participating in the election process.
The Force Legal Department advised that the September 30 ruling takes precedence, and all law enforcement personnel must act in accordance with the court’s directive. Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers, and Tactical Commanders have been instructed to ensure full compliance with the court’s order.
The announcement comes after opposition parties staged protests, demanding strict adherence to the court rulings. The Nigeria Police Force encouraged any aggrieved parties to pursue legal channels for redress, reaffirming its commitment to upholding law and order.
The police have urged all citizens to remain peaceful, orderly, and cooperative during this crucial period. Other security agencies have also been called upon to respect the court’s judgment and refrain from involvement in the election.
