The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has voiced strong support for Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, after he thwarted an alleged attempt by the Nigerian Police to take over the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) in the early hours of Friday, October 4th, 2024.
The incident, led by the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Operations), occurred just ahead of scheduled local government elections in the state. According to reports, police officers attempted to breach the commission’s gates and secure sensitive electoral materials meant for the election.
Governor Fubara, upon being alerted by vigilant security officers, promptly arrived at the scene with a delegation of lawmakers and political leaders, successfully preventing the takeover.
HURIWA strongly criticized the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr. Kayode Egbetokun, accusing him of acting in favor of political interests linked to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The civil society group warned that the police’s interference represented a serious threat to democracy and the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral system.
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In a statement by its National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, HURIWA urged the IGP to either resign and openly join the APC or maintain the impartiality expected of his office.
HURIWA condemned the attempted invasion as “an illegal operation” and called for the immediate arrest of the Deputy Commissioner of Police involved.
The organization equated the incident to an attempted coup against democracy and warned that such actions could erode public trust in the Nigeria Police Force, making it appear as an extension of the ruling party.
Onwubiko further warned that the increasing political involvement of law enforcement threatened to return Nigeria to the dark days of military rule, tarnishing the nation’s global reputation.
The statement emphasized that the Nigeria Police must uphold their constitutional role of enforcing law and order without partisan bias.