A Non-Political Group, South East South South Professionals of Nigeria (SESSPN), has strongly condemned the Nigerian Police Force’s siege on the 23 Local Government Councils of Rivers State.
Hannibal Uwaifo, President of the Group, criticized the Police authorities for exacerbating tensions by insisting on the continuation of their illegal occupation until court judgments are delivered. He described this situation as deeply regrettable and unfortunate for Nigeria in 2024, as it prevents workers in the affected local governments from accessing their offices and performing their legitimate duties.
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Uwaifo pointed out that the workers of the 23 Local Government Area Councils are not parties to any court cases and did not request police protection against those involved in litigation. He emphasized that the Police are not authorized by the courts to act on their behalf, nor do they have the capacity to predict when court cases will conclude, making it unreasonable for them to indefinitely shut down council secretariats.
The President highlighted the existence of a valid court judgment nullifying the Local Government Amendment Law that sought to extend the tenure of local government chairmen in Rivers State. He criticized the Police for not enforcing this judgment and accused them of displaying partisan behavior.
Meanwhile, Uwaifo expressed disappointment over the prevailing hunger and poverty in the country, which he attributed to misguided policies of the current administration and the insensitive statements and actions of some officials. He cited the exorbitant exchange rate of the Naira, making basic expenses like paying school fees for children abroad a daunting challenge for Nigerian parents