Governor Fubara Foils Nigerian Police’s Attempt To Take Over RSIEC, Issues Stern Warning To Inspector General Of Police

Port Harcourt, October 4, 2024 — In a dramatic turn of events, less than 48 hours before the much-anticipated Local government election in Rivers State, Governor Sir Siminalayi Fubara foiled an audacious attempt by rogue elements within the Nigerian Police to seize sensitive election materials from the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC). Early Friday morning, October 4, 2024, security officials thwarted a planned breach allegedly led by the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Operations).

At approximately 1:00 AM, the group of policemen arrived at RSIEC’s headquarters in two trucks and two Hilux vehicles, attempting to storm the gates. Their objective appeared to be the confiscation of crucial election materials intended for the October 5, 2024, local government election, which has drawn intense political attention statewide.

Governor Fubara, addressing the people of Rivers State, expressed outrage, saying, “While you were asleep, the enemies of Rivers State came to steal your liberation slips, but the Angels caught them.” He followed this with a stern warning to the Inspector General of Police, proclaiming, “Enough is enough.”

Sources suggest the plan was politically motivated, with fingers pointing at former Governor and current FCT Minister Nyesom Wike. Speculation has mounted that Wike, through influence over state security apparatus, may have orchestrated the attempted raid to sway the outcome of the elections. However, quick action by vigilant security personnel guarding RSIEC thwarted the operation.

Governor Fubara wasted no time in responding. Alongside top government officials, National and State Assembly lawmakers, and key political stakeholders, he arrived at the RSIEC office to ensure the security of election materials and to demonstrate that any attempt to subvert the democratic process would be met with firm resistance.

The incident has stirred widespread concern over the impartiality of security forces in Rivers State, particularly after the recent and suspicious replacement of the State Commissioner of Police. Many residents and political analysts have questioned the true motive behind these moves, accusing powerful political figures of attempting to manipulate the democratic process for personal gains.

Gov. Fubara’s swift intervention has been hailed as a strong defense of democracy in Rivers State. However, as the October 5 election approaches, tensions are high, with expectations that both the Nigerian Police and RSIEC will ensure a fair, transparent, and interference-free electoral process.

With the eyes of the state and nation on this pivotal election, Rivers people are determined to protect their democratic rights and expect nothing less than fairness and justice.