Fubara Accuses Police Of Attempting To Hijack RSIEC Electoral Materials Ahead Of LG Polls

Fubara Accuses Police Of Attempting To Hijack RSIEC Electoral Materials Ahead Of LG PollsRivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has voiced his dissatisfaction with the actions of the Nigerian police regarding the forthcoming local government elections scheduled for October 5, 2024. His concerns were expressed during a press conference held at the Government House in Port Harcourt, where he discussed his recent encounter with the police at the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) office.

Fubara accused certain interests of attempting to disrupt the electoral process, emphasizing that all necessary legal, security, and logistical arrangements had been finalized, and voters had been properly informed and engaged, instilling confidence in the election process.

He criticized the police for acting like hired agents in a failed attempt to raid the RSIEC and seize sensitive election materials. “This morning, I received a security report indicating that the Nigerian Police had invaded the RSIEC office,” he said. “I was taken aback, especially since I had just received a signal withdrawing the police officers assigned to guard the premises. I felt compelled to go there myself, as the facility belongs to the Rivers State Government.”

Upon arrival, Fubara recounted finding several intimidating police officers in a truck and three additional empty Hilux vans attempting to force entry into the premises. “I intervened, and we discovered that this operation was a deliberate attempt by the Nigerian Police Force—both the Rivers State Command and the Headquarters in Abuja—to steal electoral materials. Thankfully, we were able to thwart this attempt.”

The governor expressed disbelief at the conduct of the Nigerian police, suggesting that their actions indicated a shift toward being adversaries of Rivers State. He raised critical questions about the role of the RSIEC, questioning why it was treated differently compared to other agencies governed by state law.

He continued, “What is so special about the police taking over the RSIEC premises? If they claim to have a court order, it stated not to provide RSIEC with the voter register or police protection. However, did the ruling indicate that they should seal the premises or prevent the conduct of elections?

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