IGP Egbetokun Rejects Fubara Allegation

IGP assures the public of the commitment of the police to neutrality and adherence to legal directives. The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has dismissed Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s allegations about the police’s role in the recent local government elections.  Egbetokun described Fubara’s remarks as baseless and unnecessary, emphasizing that the police acted lawfully. Fubara had accused the Nigeria Police Force and its state command of attempting to disrupt the elections by attempting to seize materials. The Governor warned Egbetokun to be mindful of his position. In response, Egbetokun clarified that the police only followed a Federal High Court ruling from July 19, 2024, which restricted their involvement in the elections.  He explained that the Rivers State High Court later issued a conflicting order on September 4, directing police to provide security at the elections.  However, the Federal High Court reaffirmed its earlier stance on September 30, declaring the police’s involvement unlawful.  He stated that all court orders were reviewed by the police’s legal team, who advised compliance with the Federal High Court ruling. He urged the public to disregard misinformation and emphasized the importance of political decorum, stressing that the police would not engage in any political disputes but remain focused on their mandate.

Tinubu Asks Senate To Confirm Kekere-Ekun As Substantive CJN

President Bola Tinubu has formally requested the Nigerian Senate to confirm Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun as the substantive Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN). This request was communicated through a letter, which was read aloud by Senate President, Godswill Akpabio during a session on Tuesday. Justice Kekere-Ekun has been serving as the Acting Chief Justice since August, following the retirement of her predecessor, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola. President Tinubu had earlier sworn her into the acting role. In his letter, the President referenced Section 231(1) of the Nigerian Constitution. Tinubu stated, “Pursuant to 231(1) of the constitution of the federal republic of Nigeria of 1999 as amended which gives the power to the president powers to appoint the chief justice of Nigeria (CJN) on the recommendation of the National Judicial Commission (NJC) and subject to confirmation of the Nigerian senate,” the number one citizen said. “I have the honour to forward the nomination of Honourable Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun CON for confirmation as CJN. “While it is my hope that this request will receive the expeditious consideration and confirmation of the senate, please, accept distinguished senate president the assurances of my highest consideration and personal regards.” Following the presentation, Senate President Akpabio referred the matter to the Committee of the Whole for further consideration, with deliberations set to take place on Wednesday.