The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has urged the Nigeria Police Force to fulfill its constitutional duty of ensuring public safety, particularly during the upcoming local government elections in Rivers State.
This appeal comes in response to growing concerns over the police’s refusal to provide security for the elections, citing a court order as the reason for their stance.
NBA President, Mazi Afam Osigwe (SAN), criticized the police’s decision and stressed that their primary responsibility is to safeguard lives and property, especially in times of public events like elections.
In a statement released on Friday, Osigwe underscored the importance of police intervention in maintaining order, noting that no court ruling should prevent them from fulfilling this essential role.
“The protection of lives and property is a fundamental duty, and no court order should interfere with the police carrying out this responsibility,” Osigwe stated. He called on the police to challenge any legal obstacles that hinder them from performing their duties and to act swiftly to resolve such matters.
Failure to act, he warned, could lead to widespread unrest, putting the safety and security of citizens at risk. “The people of Rivers State must be protected under any circumstances,” he added.
The NBA expressed its concern following a statement by the Rivers State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Grace Iringe-Koko, which confirmed that the police would not provide security during the elections scheduled for October 5, 2024, due to a court directive.
The NBA also highlighted disturbing reports of alleged misconduct, with claims that certain police officers had attempted to tamper with election materials at the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) headquarters.
In support of local NBA branches, Osigwe reiterated that public safety must remain the top priority, regardless of legal challenges. He emphasized that the police should reconsider their decision and take immediate steps to ensure the security of the election process in Rivers State.
