President Bola Tinubu has directed the Nigeria Police Force to protect local government secretariats in Rivers State following reports of arson and vandalism by aggrieved hoodlums.
The unrest stems from the controversial local government elections held on Saturday.
Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga revealed this directive in a statement on Monday, highlighting the President’s concern over the escalating violence.
“In response to recent tensions following last Saturday’s local government council election, the President expressed deep concern over reports of arson and explosions in the state,” Onanuga stated.
President Tinubu called on all political actors to de-escalate the situation and discourage their supporters from engaging in violence.
“President Tinubu directed the police to restore and maintain peace, law, and order immediately. While instructing law enforcement agencies to bring the situation under control, he emphasised the need to ensure the security of public institutions,” Onanuga added.
The President underscored the importance of protecting government facilities built with public funds from vandalism.
He stressed that self-help has no place in a democratic system, especially after 25 years of continuous democracy.
“According to President Tinubu, the judiciary can settle all political disputes, and the outcome of this election should be no exception,” Onanuga noted.
The violence erupted in at least four local government areas, with parts of the buildings in Eleme, Ikwerre, and Emohua council premises set ablaze.
Gunshots were also fired sporadically in Ahoada East as resistance to the new council officials intensified.
The arson attacks followed the withdrawal of police officers securing the 23 council secretariats by the commissioner of police.
Despite the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the All Progressives Congress (APC), and the police opting out of the election, Governor Siminalayi Fubara insisted on proceeding with the polls.
The Action People’s Party (APP) emerged victorious in 22 out of the 23 chairmanship positions, while the Action Alliance (AA) secured one seat.
Governor Fubara swore in the 23 newly elected local government chairmen on Sunday.
However, some of the new officials faced attacks upon assuming office on Monday, with several council secretariats set ablaze by political opponents.
President Tinubu’s directive aims to restore order and protect public property in Rivers State, ensuring that the democratic process is upheld and that political disputes are resolved through the judiciary.
