The Nigeria Police Force, NPF, has stated that it will not adjudicate its constitutional duties to enforce court judgement against the conduct of the Rivers State Local Government election on Saturday.
As a result, thereof, the Police Command has directed its operatives to enforce the Federal High Court’s judgement against the conduct of the controversial Local Government elections scheduled for tomorrow in Rivers State.
This was contained in a statement by the Rivers State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Grace Iringe-Koko.
Recalled that 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 in Rivers State.
Iringe-Koko insisted that the Nigeria Police Force, NPF, had been advised by the Force Legal Department to comply with the judgment of the Federal High Court dated September 30, 2024. The judgment has barred the police from allowing, participating in, providing security for, or taking part in the Rivers State Local Government Election on October 5, 2024.
The statement reads: “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, NPF, 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, NPF, 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, NPF, 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”.
The statement also called on all other security agencies to comply with the Federal High Court judgment.
source: The Nation
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