Rivers State governor, Sir Similanayi Fubara, has made a strong statement regarding the potential breakdown of law and order in the state. He emphasized that he would hold Kayode Egbetokun, the Inspector-General of Police, accountable for any such occurrences.
During a press conference in Port Harcourt on Friday, Fubara expressed his concerns about the police’s role in maintaining peace and order. He highlighted that the primary duty of the police is to safeguard lives and properties rather than obstruct the operations of the electoral commission.
The governor’s remarks came after a report from Daily Trust detailing his visit to the Rivers Independent National Electoral Commission (RISEC) headquarters. He arrived early on Friday morning to address what he perceived as an attempt to illegally remove materials intended for the upcoming Local Government elections.
Fubara’s warning to the IGP was clear: he expects law enforcement to act responsibly and be aware of their responsibilities. He stressed that any actions leading to chaos in the state would not be taken lightly.
In his address, the governor recounted receiving a security report about an invasion of the RISEC office by the Nigerian Police. This news surprised him, especially since he had previously received a signal indicating that police officers had been withdrawn from the premises.
Determined to protect the electoral process, Fubara personally drove to the site after learning of the situation. He noted that the facility belongs to the Rivers State Government, making it imperative for him to intervene.
Upon arrival, Fubara was shocked to find heavily armed policemen in a truck, along with three empty vans, attempting to force their way into the electoral office. This prompted him to take immediate action to halt their advance.
Fubara and his entourage were taken aback by the police presence, which they viewed as aggressive and unwarranted. The governor felt it was necessary to confront the situation directly to ensure the integrity of the electoral process.
He revealed that the police’s movements appeared to be a coordinated effort to seize election materials. This allegation raised serious concerns about the intentions behind the police’s actions during such a critical time.
Fubara’s statements underscored the need for accountability within the police force. He insisted that the IGP must be prepared to face the consequences if lawlessness were to ensue as a result of police actions.
In conclusion, the governor’s firm stance reflects his commitment to upholding the rule of law in Rivers State. He is determined to ensure that the electoral process remains free from interference and that the rights of citizens are protected.
