President Bola Tinubu has strongly condemned the acts of violence, including arson and explosions, that have erupted in Rivers State following last Saturday’s local government council elections.
Osun Defender had earlier reported that suspected arsonists have set ablaze three sections from three local government secretariats in Rivers state.
The affected ones are; Emohua, Eleme and Ikwerre local government secretariats.
The destruction comes hours after Kayode Egbetokun, inspector-general of police, ordered the immediate withdrawal of police personnel from the secretariats of the 23 LGAs of the state.
However, reacting to the arsons in a statement on Monday by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to President on Information & Strategy, Tinubu expressed deep concern over the deteriorating security situation and called on Governor Siminalayi Fubara, political leaders, and their supporters to exercise restraint and uphold the rule of law.
In response to the escalating tensions, President Tinubu has directed the Nigerian police to immediately restore and maintain peace across the state, particularly at local government offices, which have been the focus of much of the unrest.
The statement reads, “President Bola Tinubu has called on Governor Siminalayi Fubara, political leaders and their supporters in Rivers State to exercise restraint and uphold the rule of law.
“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.
“He urged all political actors to de-escalate the situation and discourage their supporters from engaging in violence or destructive actions.
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“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.
“President Tinubu said government facilities built with public funds must be safeguarded 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.”
