Rivers State Governor Warns IGP
In a stern warning, Rivers State Governor Sir Similanayi Fubara has placed the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, on notice, declaring that the police chief will be held accountable for any breakdown of law and order in the state.
The governor’s warning comes in the wake of a reported attempt by the police to storm the premises of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RISEC), leading Fubara to personally intervene and prevent any potential tampering with election materials.
Fubara pointed out that the police have a primary responsibility to protect lives and properties, not to impede the democratic process by attempting to breach election commission premises.
The governor went on to question the motives behind the alleged police action, noting that it is the law of the state, not federal institutions, that governs the local government system in Rivers State. Fubara further stressed that any attempts by any entity, including security agencies, to obstruct the election process will be met with strong resistance.
Governor Fubara’s forceful intervention and subsequent warning to the Inspector-General of Police signal a deepening divide between the state government and the federal authorities over the conduct of the local government election in Rivers State.
The governor’s assertion that the police chief will be held accountable for any breach of peace serves as a powerful reminder of the state government’s unwavering commitment to upholding the rule of law and protecting the democratic rights of its citizens.
With tensions rising in the lead-up to the election, all parties involved must exercise restraint and respect the authority of the state to conduct a free, fair, and transparent electoral process.
Governor Fubara’s warning to the Inspector-General of Police is a significant moment in the ongoing power struggle between the Rivers State government and federal authorities over the local government election.
The governor’s assertive stance not only sends a clear message to the IGP, but it also signals to the wider public that the state government is ready to defend its sovereignty and the democratic rights of its citizens.
The Rivers State government’s resistance to federal interference in the local government election serves as a reminder that Nigeria’s federalist system is not without its challenges and that state governments will not hesitate to assert their authority when they feel their rights are being violated.
As the situation unfolds, it will be crucial for the Inspector-General of Police to tread carefully and respect the autonomy of the Rivers State government, or risk further exacerbating an already tense situation.
With the election looming, all eyes will be on the state government and federal authorities as they navigate this delicate political landscape and strive to maintain peace and order in the region.
In the aftermath of Governor Fubara’s warning to the IGP, the political landscape in Rivers State is likely to remain volatile, with tensions running high as the local government election approaches.
The standoff between the state government and federal authorities is a reminder of the deep-seated regional divisions and power dynamics that continue to shape Nigeria’s political system.
As the election draws near, it is crucial for all parties involved to prioritize the safety and well-being of the citizens of Rivers State, and to work towards a peaceful and legitimate outcome that respects the democratic process and the rights of all voters.
References and Citations:
- Daily Trust – Fubara to IGP: I’ll hold you responsible if there is breakdown of law in Rivers
- PUNCH – Rivers LG Poll: enough is enough Fubara slams police
- Daily post – Rivers election must hold, you’ll have to shoot me – Fubara dares IGP
