Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Olukayode Egbetokun has affirmed that the actions of the Nigeria Police Force during the recent Rivers State local government election were in full compliance with a subsisting court order.
This clarification comes in response to criticism following the police’s refusal to participate in the elections and the subsequent tension between the police and Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara. Police officers reportedly took control of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RIEC) premises, leading to clashes with the governor.
Addressing the situation, Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, issued a statement: “The Nigeria Police Force has noted with concern the allegations made by Governor Siminalayi Fubara against the office of the IGP and the police force. It is crucial to set the record straight.”
Adejobi clarified that a Federal High Court had issued an order barring police involvement in the Rivers elections. “This order was served to both the Nigeria Police Force and the Rivers State Government. The IGP instructed the Rivers State Commissioner of Police to adhere strictly to the order by not participating in the election process.”
He further explained that on the evening of October 3, 2024, the Rivers State Commissioner of Police received intelligence that police personnel from the Government House had been deployed to RIEC offices to assist with the election. The IGP authorized the removal of these officers, replacing them with personnel from the command’s operations department, whose sole mandate was to provide overnight security for RIEC to prevent any potential attacks.
“There had been a series of security concerns in the state due to conflicting court orders and political tensions,” Adejobi added. “The police response to secure RIEC was both professional and proactive, based on intelligence received by the state command.”
He criticized Governor Fubara for arriving at the RIEC office that night and making inflammatory statements against the police. “It is shocking to see the governor accusing police officers on lawful duty, using derogatory language towards the IGP and the institution of the police. Such outbursts are unwarranted, especially when political objectives are at stake.”
Adejobi emphasized that the Nigeria Police would not tolerate threats of violence or attempts to destabilize the state. “The Nigeria Police Force remains committed to protecting lives and property, and we will work alongside other security agencies to maintain peace and order in Rivers State.”
In response to the situation, the IGP has ordered increased security deployments across the state to ensure the safety of citizens and prevent any further unrest. The public is urged to continue with their daily activities without fear.
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