The recent local government elections in Rivers State have laid bare significant issues within Nigeria’s governance framework. What should have been a routine local election devolved into a bitter confrontation between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the police, highlighting how political interests can disrupt the rule of law and reveal the frailty of our institutions. This crisis prompts a critical examination of our legal structures and the ethical responsibilities of our political leaders and law enforcement agencies......See Full Story>>.....See Full Story>>
Governor Fubara’s decision to move forward with the elections, despite a clear Federal High Court order to the contrary, ignited this turmoil. His stance found backing in a Supreme Court ruling from July 2024, which upheld the right of elected local governments to serve their full terms. However, this legal backdrop was overshadowed by the Federal High Court’s last-minute intervention, which instructed the police not to provide security for the elections. Caught in this legal crossfire, the police opted to heed the lower court’s directive, abandoning their duties and leaving the electoral process vulnerable to disruption. This decision incited accusations of sabotage from Fubara and raised serious concerns about the police’s role in maintaining law and order.
Fubara’s outrage is understandable. Local elections in Rivers State hold profound implications for resource management and the allocation of power at the grassroots level. His frustration stemmed not only from political ambition but also from a genuine desire to protect state authority against perceived federal encroachment. However, in his quest to assert state power, Fubara failed to consider the ramifications of defying a court order, exacerbating an already tense situation. His public statements, laden with accusations against the police, risked deepening the rift between state and federal institutions, further eroding public trust in the political system.
Meanwhile, the police found themselves trapped between conflicting court orders from the Supreme Court and the Federal High Court. Their decision to prioritize the lower court’s directive raises profound questions about their understanding of the law and their obligation to uphold order during elections. As the highest legal authority, the Supreme Court’s rulings should take precedence. By choosing to disregard its authority, the police not only undermined the integrity of the electoral process but also contributed to the chaos that ensued.
Examining the events in Rivers State reveals that both parties share responsibility for the turmoil. Fubara’s insistence on proceeding with the elections, regardless of the court’s injunction, reflects a troubling disregard for legal norms. His actions not only threatened to destabilize the electoral process but also painted the government in a negative light, leading to doubts about its commitment to democratic values. His inflammatory rhetoric escalated tensions, fostering an environment ripe for conflict.
The police, who should serve as impartial enforcers of the law, failed to fulfill their mandate by allowing a lower court’s order to overshadow the Supreme Court’s decision. This choice not only compromised the security of the elections but also raised questions about their professionalism and commitment to public safety. Their absence during such a crucial democratic exercise left the process open to violence and manipulation, eroding the legitimacy of the elections and fostering distrust among the electorate.
The ramifications of this crisis extend well beyond the immediate electoral landscape; it reveals a broader dysfunction within Nigeria’s governance framework. Conflicting court orders point to a lack of coherence within the judiciary, which must be addressed to prevent similar crises in the future. The judiciary’s role in upholding the rule of law is critical, and a disjointed legal environment only exacerbates political tensions and diminishes public confidence in democratic institutions.
The events in Rivers State emphasize the urgent need for the police to reaffirm their commitment to their foundational principles, maintaining public order and safeguarding the democratic process. The decision to withdraw security in light of conflicting court orders depicts a failure to prioritize the electoral process and protect citizens’ rights. Law enforcement must operate independently and impartially, placing their duty to the public above political pressures or allegiances.
The Rivers State local government elections serve as a reminder of the fragility of the rule of law in Nigeria, especially when political interests overshadow legal obligations. The events surrounding these elections are not merely a question of right or wrong; they illuminate the dire consequences of institutional failure when those in power prioritize personal agendas over public service. Both Governor Fubara and the police must engage in rigorous self-examination and accountability to avoid similar crises in the future.
The state government should reassess its approach to governance, prioritizing collaboration and adherence to the rule of law rather than conflict and defiance. Fubara must recognize that true leadership involves a commitment to upholding democratic values and respecting the legal framework that governs the state. This includes honoring court orders and fostering constructive dialogue with federal authorities instead of resorting to incendiary rhetoric that further polarizes the political landscape.
Similarly the police must reflect on their actions and reaffirm their role as guardians of public order. They should prioritize the protection of the electoral process and the rights of citizens above all else. Establishing a clear framework of accountability and operational guidelines is essential to ensure that law enforcement agencies act impartially and in accordance with the law, particularly during crucial democratic exercises.
The lessons learned from the legal and constitutional crisis of the Rivers State local government elections should serve as a wake-up call for all stakeholders in Nigeria’s governance. Strengthening institutions, clarifying legal frameworks, and renewing our commitment to the rule of law are vital if Nigeria hopes to preserve its democratic processes and restore public trust in its governance structures. This crisis is a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s political landscape, demanding reflection, action, and a collective commitment to safeguarding democracy. The way forward requires a united effort to rebuild the integrity of our institutions and to ensure that the voices of the people are heard and respected in the democratic process.
Stephanie Sewuese Shaakaa
University of Agriculture,
Makurdi, Benue State