*Demands Investigation Into Alleged Police Attempt To Cart Away Election Materials

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has strongly condemned the Rivers State Police Command’s statement indicating that they will not provide security during the local government elections scheduled for Saturday, October 5, 2024. The NBA described the police’s stance as an “unfortunate abdication of responsibility and egregious violation of constitutional duties.”

In a statement released by NBA President Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, the association expressed deep concerns over the controversies surrounding the upcoming elections in Rivers State. The NBA emphasized that the police’s constitutional mandate to protect lives and property extends to providing security during elections, and any failure to perform this obligation is unacceptable.

“The refusal to provide security is not only unconstitutional but also illegal, immoral, and a dangerous signal that invites lawlessness and undermines democracy,” Osigwe stated. “It is, in every sense, a direct attack on the democratic rights of the people of Rivers State and, by extension, Nigeria as a whole. In fact, it threatens our democracy.”

The NBA also addressed the disturbing report of policemen allegedly attempting to cart away electoral materials from the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) head office. Osigwe called on the Inspector General of Police to launch an immediate investigation into the incident and ensure that any errant officers involved are swiftly and appropriately disciplined.

Furthermore, the NBA noted the conflicting judgments from the Rivers State High Court and the Federal High Court in Abuja concerning the scheduled elections. Osigwe expressed disappointment over the “judicial rascality” of courts issuing contradictory orders on the same matter, emphasizing the need for consistency and coherence in the law.

The NBA president urged all security agencies to rise to the challenge of protecting lives, property, and democracy during this critical time. He reiterated the association’s commitment to engaging with relevant stakeholders to find a sustainable solution to the ongoing judicial conflicts.

“The protection of our democracy and the upholding of the rule of law must remain the highest priority,” Osigwe concluded.

The NBA’s statement comes amid growing tensions in Rivers State as the local government elections approach. The association’s call for the police to fulfill their constitutional duties and ensure the security of the elections has drawn attention to the critical role of law enforcement in safeguarding the democratic process.

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