The ongoing political crisis in Rivers State has escalated, with accusations flying between Governor Similanayi Fubara and the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun.
Governor Fubara recently expressed outrage over the police’s role in the local government elections.
He accused the IGP of siding with certain politicians in Abuja, a claim that Egbetokun has firmly denied.
“I am saying this here so that the IGP should be aware that any action that will bring a situation of lawlessness in this state, he should be prepared to take responsibility,” Fubara stated during a press conference.
His remarks came just before the Rivers Local Government elections, which were marred by controversy.
In a statement issued by Muyiwa Adejobi, the Force Public Relations Officer, the police force clarified its position.
Egbetokun emphasized that the police remain neutral and do not interfere in political matters.
He explained that the police’s actions were guided by a series of court rulings related to the elections.
“First, the Nigeria Police Force was served with an order of injunction by the Federal High Court on July 19, 2024, barring us from participating in the local government elections,” he stated.
This ruling deemed the elections unlawful, raising questions about the police’s involvement.
The police were subsequently confronted with conflicting orders from the Rivers State High Court, which on September 4, 2024, instructed federal security agencies, including the police, to provide security during the elections.
“It’s important to note that the NPF was not joined as a party in this suit,” Egbetokun added, highlighting the complexities surrounding the legal landscape in Rivers State.
The back-and-forth between the courts created confusion for the police.
On September 30, 2024, the Federal High Court reaffirmed its earlier injunction, nullifying any previous actions regarding the elections.
The court ordered the police to refrain from providing security during the electoral process.
Egbetokun explained that the IGP took these legal orders seriously.
“He forwarded the three court orders to the Force Legal section for advice,” he said, noting that the legal team is made up of experienced lawyers, including a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN).
In light of these developments, the IGP directed the Rivers State Police Command to adhere to the Federal High Court ruling.
He also informed Governor Fubara of this decision in a letter dated October 2, 2024.
Fubara’s accusations have created a tense atmosphere in Rivers State.
The governor has been vocal about his frustrations, suggesting that the police’s withdrawal of security during the elections could lead to chaos.
He has vowed to hold the IGP responsible if violence occurs.
“Any breakdown of law and order in Rivers State will be the IGP’s responsibility,” Fubara warned, further intensifying the situation.
Despite the governor’s claims, the police insist they acted according to legal directives.
“The misinformation triggered by the unwarranted outburst of the Executive Governor is based on no material fact,” Egbetokun stated, labeling the governor’s comments as unfair to the police force.
As tensions rise, the police are calling for calm in Rivers State.
Egbetokun urged citizens to avoid misinformation and to trust that the police are operating within the law.
“The IGP has advised the Governor to also abide by the court ruling in the interest of peace and the well-being of the people of Rivers State,” he stated.
This plea for calm comes at a crucial time, as the local government elections have already faced numerous challenges, including allegations of violence and intimidation.
The political climate in Rivers State has been fraught with tension for years.
Past elections have often been marred by violence and accusations of electoral fraud.
In this environment, the role of security forces becomes particularly sensitive.
The police have been criticized in the past for their handling of electoral security, making their actions in this instance all the more scrutinized.
