Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State says the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, is bias in the handling of the crisis surrounding the conduct of the local government election in the state.
The governor also vowed that nothing will prevent the upcoming local government election from taking place in the state tomorrow (Saturday).
Fubara made this statement following a visit to the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) on Thursday night, after receiving reports of alleged police interference in the electoral process.
His words, “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’s 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 said the only thing that can stop the election is if he is shot.
“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,” he said.
“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…if this is going to be the last fight, I’ll take it to the end.”
