The Nigerian Bar Association Condemns Police Refusal to Provide Security for Rivers State Local Government Elections
The Nigerian Bar Association is deeply concerned about the Nigeria Police Force’s decision not to provide security for the upcoming Local Government elections in Rivers State. The police’s refusal, supposedly in compliance with a court order, has been met with strong criticism from the NBA.
In a statement signed by NBA President Afam Osigwe, the association condemned the police’s stance, stating that their duty to protect lives, property, and the democratic process cannot be neglected. The NBA emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and order during elections, calling the police’s decision unconstitutional, illegal, and immoral.
The NBA also demanded a thorough investigation into reports of police officers attempting to tamper with electoral materials at the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission office. The association called for swift disciplinary action against any officers involved in such activities.
Amid conflicting court judgments regarding the elections, the NBA urged judicial coherence to avoid confusion and pledged to engage with stakeholders to uphold the rule of law. The association emphasized the need for security agencies to ensure the protection of lives, property, and democratic processes during the elections.
As the situation unfolds, the NBA will continue monitoring and pressuring the Nigeria Police Force to fulfill its constitutional duty of safeguarding the public, regardless of court rulings.