The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has strongly criticized the Nigeria Police Force's decision not to provide security for the upcoming Local Government elections in Rivers State. In a statement signed by its President, Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, the NBA emphasized that the police have a constitutional duty to ensure peace and security during and after elections. The association condemned the police’s refusal, labeling it unconstitutional, illegal, and a threat to democracy.
The NBA also expressed concern over reports that some police officers allegedly attempted to steal electoral materials from the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC). They urged the Inspector General of Police to investigate the incident and ensure appropriate disciplinary action is taken.
Additionally, the NBA denounced the conflicting court orders regarding the elections, describing it as "judicial rascality," and called for consistency in legal decisions. They reiterated that protecting democracy and the rule of law must be prioritized at all times.