NBA

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has condemned the decision of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) not to provide security during the Local Government (LG) election in Rivers State on Saturday.

The NBA President, Afam Osigwe (SAN) in a statement on Friday night said the Police cannot shirk its responsibility to provide security in Rivers State.

“The Nigerian Bar Association has noted with deep concerns the controversies and actions of actors relating to and pertaining the scheduled Local Government elections in Rivers State,” Osigwe said.

“The NBA has noted with particular interest the statement released by the Rivers State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Grace Iringe-Koko which indicates that the Rivers State Police will not provide security during the Local Government elections scheduled for Saturday, October 5, 2024.

“The NBA has also read the disturbing report that some Policemen were alleged to have attempted to cart away electoral materials in the dead of the night at the head office of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC).

“We agree with the statement issued by the chairmen of NBA branches in Rivers State as we find it deeply troubling that the Police would brazenly issue a statement that they would shirk their constitutional responsibility of providing security in Rivers State in purported compliance with an order of court.

“Even if a court has directed the Police not to work with the Electoral Commission in Rivers State, nothing says the Police should not provide security for peace and order in Rivers State.”

Osigwe said the responsibility of the police to ensure peace and security in Rivers State is constitutional and cannot be restrained by any court.

He stated that the Police should at all times provide security for the good people of Nigeria and should in fact be worried if any court order purports to prevent them from discharging this responsibility.

According to him, the duty to secure the lives and property of the people is one that should never be restrained by the court.

Osigwe said the Police as well as all Nigerians should be concerned that such a statement was issued by the force, confirming they would abdicate their duty.

The NBA President warned that the Police must ensure they discharge their duties at all times and urgently take steps to set aside any judgement that seeks to prevent them from discharging their constitutional responsibilities.

He said to do otherwise may enthrone a reign of terror or breakdown of law and order, adding that the people of Rivers must never be left unprotected no matter what.

Osigwe said any act or position that leaves the people and their activities unprotected is utterly unacceptable and strongly condemned by the Nigerian Bar Association.

He lamented that the assertion by the Rivers State Police, through the PPRO, that they will not provide security for the LG election if accurate is an unfortunate abdication of responsibility and egregious violation of constitutional duties.

According to him, their refusal to provide security is not only unconstitutional but also illegal, immoral and a dangerous signal that invites lawlessness and undermines democracy.

Osigwe said it is in every sense a direct attack on the democratic rights of the people of Rivers State and by extension, Nigeria as a whole, adding that it in fact threatens the nation’s democracy.

He pointed out that the Police is constitutionally mandated to protect lives and property and this duty extends to providing security during elections.

Osigwe said any failure to perform this obligation is unacceptable because the security of elections and indeed every other activity are not matters for negotiation.

According to him, they are constitutional responsibilities that must be carried out by the police at all times and the force should never shirk such responsibilities.

“The Nigerian Bar Association condemns in the strongest possible terms any attempt to undermine the scheduled elections in the 22 Local Government Areas of Rivers State by refusing to provide security,” he said.

“We will continue to closely monitor the situation as it unfolds. We call on all security agencies to rise to the challenge of protecting lives, property and democracy during this critical time.

“Furthermore, we urge the Inspector General of Police to launch an immediate investigation into these troubling report that Policemen sought to cart away electoral materials and ensure that any errant officers involved are swiftly and appropriately disciplined regardless of whose interests are affected.

“The NBA has also taken note of the conflicting judgments from the Rivers State High Court and the Federal High Court in Abuja concerning the scheduled Local Government elections.

“It is deeply disheartening and amounts to judicial rascality that courts of concurrent jurisdiction are issuing contradictory orders on the same matter.

“The NBA is committed to engaging with all relevant stakeholders to find a sustainable solution to this constant judicial conflict as the consistency and coherence of the law are fundamental to its effectiveness.

“The protection of our democracy and the upholding of the rule of law must remain the highest priority,” Osigwe concluded.

The Nigeria Police Force has said it will enforce the court’s orders on providing security for the Local Government Election in Rivers State scheduled for Saturday, October 5, 2024.

The spokesperson of the Rivers State Police Command, Grace Iringe-Koko in a statement on Friday night said, informing all law-abiding citizens and stakeholders in Rivers State about the LG election, particularly in light of recent court rulings.

“On July 19, 2024, a Federal High Court in Abuja issued a restraining order preventing the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies from providing security during the Local Government Election,” Iringe-Koko said.

“Additionally, on September 30, 2024, the Federal High Court in Abuja delivered a judgment that again prohibited the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies from participating in the Local Government Election.

“Given these circumstances, the Nigeria Police Force has been advised by the Force Legal Department that the ruling from the Federal High Court on September 30, 2024, takes precedence.

“Recently, an opposition party protested, calling for adherence to the court orders and expressing their determination to prevent any disregard for the law. The Nigeria Police Force encourages all parties to seek appropriate legal redress if they feel aggrieved by any decisions or actions related to the election process.
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The Nigeria Police Force is dedicated to maintaining law and order and will not stand idly by in the face of potential disturbances. Necessary actions will be taken to enforce the court’s orders. All Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers, and Tactical Commanders have been directed to ensure full compliance with the judgment of the Federal High Court.”

She said in view of the above, the Nigeria Police Force has been advised by the Force Legal Department to comply with the judgment of the Federal High Court dated September 30, 2024, which bars its operatives from allowing, participating in, providing security for, or taking part in the Rivers LG election.

The Rivers State Force spokesperson said all other security agencies are also implored to comply with the Federal High Court judgment.

“In light of these developments, the Nigeria Police Force calls on all citizens to remain peaceful and orderly and to cooperate with law enforcement in upholding the rule of law during this crucial period,” she said.

The Peoples Democratic Party has warned the Nigeria Police not to undermine democracy, urging the residents of Rivers State to engage in the Local Government Area election scheduled for Saturday.

On Thursday, Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara confirmed that the local government election would proceed as planned, despite opposition from supporters of his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, who is now the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory.

The governor urged individuals and groups not to attempt to interfere with the electoral process, emphasizing his refusal to tolerate any actions that might create confusion or instability in the state.

Tensions have risen as PDP supporters aligned with Wike and a faction of the All Progressives Congress, headed by Chief Tony Okocha, have opted out of the election, citing concerns over irregularities and a lack of proper procedures by the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission.

Fubara has likewise alleged that the Nigeria Police are working in conjunction with Wike to disrupt the local government elections.

In reply, the PDP, represented by its National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, declared that the residents of Rivers State are ready for the election.

Ologunagba mentioned that RSIEC has verified its preparedness and has all the essential materials to carry out the election, emphasizing that no court operating under the Electoral Act 2022 has the authority to obstruct the process.

Read Also: Rivers LG Poll: Police Declares Non-participation

The statement read in part “The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) charges the people of Rivers State to firmly assert their sovereignty and Constitutional right by coming out en masse to vote in the Saturday, October 5, 2024 Local Government Area election across the State.

“The PDP insists that the right to civil control of democratic activities in Rivers State as a federating unit belongs to the generality of the people of the State and such right, including participation in Local Government Area election cannot be abridged or appropriated by any person, group or organization under any guise whatsoever.

“The Party maintains that the people of Rivers State are ready for election; the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) had also announced its readiness, preparedness and possession of necessary operational materials to conduct the election in line with the pronouncement of the Supreme Court and NO COURT under the Electoral Act 2022 (as amended) has the power to stop elections.

“For the avoidance of doubt, Section 84(15) of the Electoral Act, 2022 provides that Nothing in this section shall empower the courts to stop the holding of primaries or general elections, under the Act pending the determination of a suit.”

The PDP called on Nigerians and the global community to demand accountability from the APC and Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun for any disturbances of peace and order occurring in Rivers State at this moment.

“The PDP in very strong terms condemns the attempt by the APC-controlled Police to abridge, subvert and frustrate the smooth conduct of the Rivers State Local Government Area election against the Will of the people, the pronouncement of the Supreme Court, the express provisions of the Electoral Act, 2022 (as amended) and the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended).

“The reported invasion of RSIEC facilities by Police operatives allegedly to frustrate the conduct of the election is a direct affront to our democracy and the Rule of Law; an attempt which was firmly resisted by the people of Rivers State who are resolute to express their Will at the poll.

“The Police and the APC should note that the people of Rivers State are peace-loving and law-abiding but will never allow anybody by whatever means to stifle, abridge, appropriate or subvert their Will, especially in choosing who governs them, particularly at the Local Government level.

“The Inspector General of Police should note that he is duty bound under the Constitution to provide the enabling and secure environment for the smooth conduct of the Rivers State Local Government Area election irrespective of where he stands as an individual. Duty calls on him to act professionally in the overall interest of our hard-earned democracy and the stability of our nation, Nigeria,” the party said.

Ologunagba commended the bravery and resolve of the Rivers State populace in their dedication to safeguarding their right to engage in the electoral process.

The PDP voiced its backing for the government and citizens of Rivers in their effort to elect representatives peacefully, who will oversee the administration of the 23 Local Government Areas in line with legal regulations.

The Rivers State Police Command has announced its intention to fully adhere to the Federal High Court’s ruling in Abuja, which prohibits it from participating in the local government election scheduled for October 5 in the state.

This announcement followed less than 24 hours after a group of leaders from the Peoples Democratic Party, headed by state party chairman Aaron Chukwuemeka, along with their supporters, demonstrated against the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission’s handling of the election.

The demonstrators marched to the offices of the Department of State Services and the State Police Command in Port Harcourt, urging both agencies to honor the existing court order and refrain from involvement in the election. Aaron also submitted a petition and a copy of the court’s ruling to the officials at both institutions.

The representative of the state police command, Grace Iringe-Koko, revealed this in a statement released on Thursday in Port Harcourt.

Iringe-Koko, a Superintendent of Police, explained that the decision follows the instructions from the Force Legal Department, stating that the ruling from the Federal High Court on September 30, 2024, is of primary importance.

Emphasizing that they had reviewed the two court rulings prohibiting their involvement, she urged citizens to maintain peace.

The statement read, “The Nigeria Police Force seeks to inform all law-abiding citizens and stakeholders in Rivers State about the upcoming local government election, particularly in the light of recent court rulings.

“On July 19, 2024, a Federal High Court in Abuja issued a restraining order preventing the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies from providing security during the local government election.

“Additionally, on September 30, 2024, the Federal High Court in Abuja delivered a judgment that again prohibited the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies from participating in the local government election.

Read also: Security Forces Prevent Election Material Theft in Rivers LG Polls

“Given these circumstances, the Nigeria Police Force has been advised by the Force Legal Department that the ruling from the Federal High Court on September 30, 2024, takes precedence.

“Recently, an opposition party protested, calling for adherence to the court orders and expressing their determination to prevent any disregard for the law.

“The Nigeria Police Force encourages all parties to seek appropriate legal redress if they feel aggrieved by any decisions or actions related to the election process.

“The Nigeria Police Force is dedicated to maintaining law and order and will not stand idly by in the face of potential disturbances.

“Necessary actions will be taken to enforce the court’s orders. All Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers, and Tactical Commanders have been directed to ensure full compliance with the judgment of the Federal High Court.”

It added, “In view of the above, the Nigeria Police Force has been advised by the Force Legal Department to comply with the judgment of the Federal High Court dated September 30, 2024, which bars the Nigeria Police from allowing, participating in, providing security for, or taking part in the Rivers State Local Government Election on October 5, 2024.

“All other security agencies are also implored to comply with the Federal High Court judgment.

“In light of these developments, the Nigeria Police Force calls on all citizens to remain peaceful and orderly and to cooperate with law enforcement in upholding the rule of law during this crucial period.”

Security forces in Rivers State thwarted an attempt on Friday by individuals clad in police uniforms to seize control of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission’s office.

The event is said to have taken place at approximately 1 a.m. on Friday.

Sources indicate that the criminals tried to breach the gates and secure room of the commission to steal important electoral materials intended for the local government election scheduled for Saturday in the state.

A source who witnessed the incident but was not authorised to speak on the matter said, “The move was botched when vigilant security officials alerted principal officers of the commission and relevant government authorities, who immediately informed Governor Siminalayi Fubara of the development.”

The source indicated that the governor headed a group comprising government officials, lawmakers from both the National Assembly and State House of Assembly, prominent political figures, and other leaders to the location.

While addressing reporters outside the RSIEC Office on Aba Road in Port Harcourt, Fubara denounced the incident and praised the security personnel for their vigilance.

Another Government House source said, “The governor said local government election was the internal affairs of states, and advised those trying to truncate the process and cause anarchy in the state to allow the federation unit conduct its affairs without interference.”

At the same time, our reporter has learned that several government officials, stakeholders, and supporters are currently maintaining a watch at the facility.

Attempts to contact the state Police Public Relations Officer, Grace Iringe-Koko, were unsuccessful, as her phone could not be reached.

As of Friday morning when this report was filed, she had not responded to a text message sent by our reporter.

The PUNCH

The Peoples Democratic Party on Tuesday criticized President Bola Tinubu for allegedly presenting misleading statements about his accomplishments in his 64th Independence Day address.

The opposition party argued that Tinubu’s speech highlighted the ruling All Progressives Congress’ disregard for the challenges faced by Nigerians.

In response, the APC labeled the PDP as a desperate party trying to regain significance.

In a statement released on Tuesday, PDP National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba described Tinubu’s speech as a “complete waste of time,” emphasising that it failed to address the pressing economic and security issues currently plaguing the country.

During his national address on Tuesday morning, President Tinubu emphasized the importance of reform to secure Nigeria’s advancement and success.

He cautioned that maintaining the status quo could result in the country’s downfall.

The President mentioned that since assuming office 16 months ago, his government has focused on overhauling the political economy and defense system in response to the nation’s difficulties.

“We found ourselves at a dizzying crossroads, where we must choose between two paths: reform for progress and prosperity or carry on business as usual and collapse,” Tinubu said, highlighting that his administration had attracted over $30bn in foreign direct investment in the past year.

In reaction, the PDP criticized the speech for not addressing the struggles of millions of Nigerians, such as economic challenges, joblessness, and severe poverty.

The opposition party said, “The 64th Independence Day speech by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is another lethargic and windy rhetoric of false performance claims and empty promises.”

The PDP criticized the APC government for its disregard of the public’s hardships, claiming that the speech reinforced their belief that prospects for improvement under the current administration were dim.

The PDP voiced surprise that the President’s speech minimized key concerns like the severe economic hardship and hunger that had earlier sparked public demonstrations.

It also challenged Tinubu’s promises of economic growth and reduced living expenses, stating that these assertions contradicted the current reality of increasing fuel costs and unemployment.

The PDP called on President Tinubu to adopt a more proactive approach, encouraging him to visit markets or interact with urban youth to gain a clearer picture of the people’s actual situation, rather than depending on misleading data from his advisers.

The PDP  cautioned that the APC-led administration seemed intent on stifling democracy, as the speech notably omitted any mention of the erosion of electoral credibility and citizens’ rights under its governance.

Overall, the PDP’s response reflects deep dissatisfaction with the APC’s handling of the nation’s pressing issues and a call for more genuine engagement with the public.

Reacting, however, the APC Director of Publicity, Bala Ibrahim, stated that the PDP’s reaction stemmed from its frustration over the ruling party achieving what they could not.

The PDP warned that the APC-led government appeared determined to undermine democracy, as the speech conspicuously failed to address the decline in electoral integrity and the suppression of citizens’ rights under its rule.

In general, the PDP’s response signals significant discontent with the APC’s management of the country’s urgent problems, along with a demand for more sincere interaction with the public.

In response, the APC’s Director of Publicity, Bala Ibrahim, remarked that the PDP’s criticism arose from their frustration over the ruling party’s success in areas where they had failed.

He stated “For the PDP, rather than burying their heads in shame, they claimed the President’s speech is empty.

The PDP needs to realize that ever since they left the political stage, stability has been restored in Nigeria, bringing peace back to the nation and to Abuja, the center of power.

“Since the PDP left office, the situation has improved day by day under the APC government. During the PDP’s time, there was no peace in Abuja, making it difficult for a sitting President to address the nation from Eagle Square.

“Under an APC-led federal government, Nigerians are experiencing peace of mind. Therefore, the PDP’s reaction to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s speech is nothing but an afterthought; they are merely reacting because they see what they failed to achieve being accomplished by the APC government. By the grace of God, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu will move Nigeria forward.”