Rivers State Governor Sim Fubara asserted on Friday that the state’s local government elections must proceed as scheduled, despite opposition from the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun. Fubara boldly stated that the IGP would not stop him from accessing the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) premises.

Speaking in Port Harcourt, Fubara declared, “The IGP would have to shoot me to prevent my entry into RSIEC. When it comes to Rivers State, you call yourself the IGP, but enough is enough. I will stand my ground. This is my state, and these are my people. Elections must hold.”

Fubara expressed frustration, adding, “You have no authority to stop me. Try it, and part of your legacy as a wicked IGP will include shooting Fubara. I’ve shown enough respect, but to all Rivers indigenes, know that the elections will take place, no matter what happens.”

The Rivers State Police Command had earlier stated that they would not provide security for the local government elections slated for Saturday, following a court ruling. In a statement issued by police spokesperson SP Grace Iringe-Koko, the Command confirmed receiving a restraining order preventing them from participating in the elections, referencing a September 30, 2024, judgment from an Abuja Federal High Court. The Force Legal Department advised that the court's ruling should be upheld.

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