Governor Sim Fubara of Rivers State has openly challenged the Inspector-General of Police, daring him to order his shooting if that’s what it takes to stop the local government elections scheduled for Saturday. ...READ THE FULL STORY FROM SOURCE ...READ THE FULL STORY FROM SOURCE
According to Businessday report, At the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission premises on Friday morning, Fubara confronted police attempting to seal off the facility.
He expressed frustration and disappointment, accusing the Inspector-General of Police of showing unwavering loyalty to the FCT Minister, who Fubara claims thinks he “owns” Rivers State.
Fubara clarified that he had written to the Inspector-General, citing a Supreme Court ruling that outlawed caretaker committees from running local governments in Nigeria.
He argued that while the police are free to withhold security, as ruled by a Federal High Court, there is no court order to stop the election.
The governor emphasized that the election will proceed as planned, despite the police withdrawal.
“Keep your security, I don’t need it… This election must hold on Saturday. The result will be declared, the winners will be sworn in.”
Fubara vowed to remain at the electoral commission premises, willing to face the consequences. “I’ll stay here and wait for them to shoot me if that’s what they want… Enough is enough.”
The Nigerian police have formally withdrawn from the election, citing Federal High Court rulings from July 19 and September 30, 2024. However, many groups and political parties in the state are urging Fubara to proceed with the election.
They argue that failure to do so would lead to a constitutional crisis by the end of October when caretaker committees’ terms expire.
The governor’s determination to conduct the election has garnered support from various stakeholders, who see it as a crucial step towards democratic governance…...CLICK HERE TO READ THE FULL ARTICLE ➤