Port Harcourt, Rivers State, 4th October 2024 – In an unexpected turn of events, the Rivers State Council of Traditional Rulers has condemned the alleged attempt by rogue policemen to tamper with electoral materials at the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) office ahead of the Local Government elections scheduled for tomorrow, 5th October 2024.
In a press release, the Council stated that residents of Rivers State woke up to unsettling news regarding rogue elements within the police force allegedly attempting to gain access to RSIEC offices. This action, the Council claims, raises significant concerns about the impartiality and trustworthiness of the police as they prepare for the elections.
The situation has been further aggravated by the Rivers State Police Command’s decision to withdraw security for the upcoming elections. In response, the traditional rulers are calling on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene by instructing the police to fulfill their duties impartially.
The Council also appealed to the President to prevent anyone or any group from using the police to create instability in the state, warning that any return to unrest in Rivers State would ultimately harm the country as a whole.
In addition, the rulers admonished politicians not to sacrifice the state’s stability for their political interests. They called on residents to be resilient in the face of threats, urging eligible voters to come out en-masse on 5th October to elect their representatives for the next three years.
The traditional rulers also urged RSIEC to conduct elections in line with international best practices while encouraging Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, to maintain peace despite provocation.
This statement was signed by His Majesty, King Chike Anderson A. Worlu Wodo, Chairman of the Rivers State Council of Traditional Rulers, and Dr. Ogwuokwa Matthew Jonah, Secretary to the Council.
The Council’s strong stance signals an attempt to prevent a descent into chaos and to ensure a peaceful, free, and fair election process in Rivers State.
