President Bola Tinubu has stepped in to address the escalating tensions in Rivers State following the local government elections.
From his current location in the United Kingdom, where he is observing his leave, Tinubu expressed deep concern over reports of arson and explosions in the state.
The elections, which took place last Saturday, saw the Action People’s Party (APP), backed by Governor Sim Fubara, win 22 out of 23 chairmanship seats. However, the outcome has been met with violence, including the invasion of at least five local government councils by thugs, who set fire to the buildings.
Tinubu has directed the Nigeria Police Force to immediately restore peace across the state, particularly at local government secretariats, where arson and unrest have taken place. He urged all political actors to de-escalate the situation and discourage their supporters from engaging in violence or destructive actions.
*Key Directives from President Tinubu:*
– _Restore Peace and Order_: Tinubu instructed law enforcement agencies to bring the situation under control and ensure the security of public institutions.
– _Protect Public Institutions_: He warned that government facilities built with public funds must be safeguarded from vandalism.
– _Promote Peaceful Resolution_: The President stressed that self-help has no place in a democratic system, especially after 25 years of continuous democracy.
– _Judicial Resolution_: Tinubu emphasized that the judiciary can settle all political disputes, and the outcome of this election should be no exception.
Through his media aide, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu called on Governor Siminalayi Fubara, political leaders, and their supporters in Rivers State to exercise restraint and uphold the rule of law. The President’s swift response aims to prevent further escalation of violence and ensure a peaceful resolution to the disputes arising from the local government elections.
