Siminalayi Fubara, Governor of Rivers State on Friday, stormed office of Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RISEC) in Port Harcourt, the state capital.
Gatekeepers News reports that the Governor did this to make sure nothing stopped the local government election in the state from holding because police operatives barricaded the facility where electoral materials are kept.
Security operatives stationed at RISEC office departed shortly after Fubara arrived at the building alongside some lawmakers and government officials.
According to reports, Rivers police command had before this, said operatives from its command would not provide security for the election.
Police spokesperson in Rivers state, Grace Iringe-Koko said the command’s decision is in line with an order of federal high court in Abuja.
However, the Governor while addressing newsmen said the presence of police officers at RISEC premises was unnecessary.
Fubara alleged that Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun is taking orders from Nyesom Wike, minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
He said, “We came here this morning when we heard that the Nigeria police are coming to take over the premises of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RISEC). I had to come myself to find out why such a thing would happen.”
“I have to say this on a very strong note. We have been taking enough nonsense from this institution. Everybody is aware of the court judgment.”
“Did the ruling specify anywhere that the election should not be held? It (judgment) said don’t give voter register. What are we doing with it? Police, don’t provide security. Is it the same thing as blocking the election?”
“I don’t know what the relationship between the inspector-general of police and one person who claims he has so much power in this state. I don’t know the relationship because it is beginning to go beyond the normal professional relationship.”
“Did the judgment of the federal high court say election should be barred? Rather, it tactically said don’t provide (security). We don’t need your security. We will provide our security.”
“After all, it happened in Anambra. Go away with your security. But this election must hold. Whatever you want to do, do it. The election will be held, results will be declared, and people will be sworn in.”
Fubara maintained that the only thing that could stop the election from holding was if he was shot.
He continued, “When it comes to the issue of Rivers state, it becomes different. You are not ashamed of yourself. You call yourself inspector-general of police. Enough is enough. I will be here. This (RISEC) is my property. You don’t have any power whatsoever to bar me from entering it. Just try it. That part of your history as a very wicked and fraudulent inspector-general will include shooting Fubara.”
“I think I have given you enough respect. Let me tell all Rivers indigenes and everyone residing in Rivers state. The election will hold. Anything that wants to happen, let it happen.”
