President Bola Tinubu has instructed the Nigeria Police Force to safeguard local government secretariats in Rivers State from potential attacks by arsonists and vandals. This directive follows reports of violence and destruction in the aftermath of the local government elections held on Saturday.
In a statement released by presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga, the President expressed serious concern over the incidents of arson and explosions that have occurred in the state. "In light of the recent tensions following the local government council election, the President urged all political actors to help de-escalate the situation and discourage their supporters from engaging in violence or destructive behavior," Onanuga stated.
President Tinubu emphasized the importance of restoring peace, law, and order, directing the police to act swiftly to maintain security around public institutions. "Government facilities funded by the public must be protected from vandalism," he added.
The President reiterated that self-help has no place in a democracy, especially after 25 years of uninterrupted democratic governance.
The unrest comes shortly after the local government elections in Rivers State, where violent clashes were reported in at least four local government areas. Buildings in Eleme, Ikwerre, and Emohua were set ablaze, and gunshots were fired in Ahoada East as some individuals resisted the newly appointed council officials.
These violent incidents followed the withdrawal of police officers from the 23 council secretariats, a move ordered by the police commissioner.
Despite the involvement of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the electoral process, Governor Siminalayi Fubara insisted that the elections proceed as scheduled. The Action People’s Party (APP) emerged victorious, winning 22 of the 23 chairmanship positions, while the Action Alliance (AA) secured one seat.
On Sunday, Governor Fubara swore in the 23 newly elected local government chairmen, but on Monday, some of them faced attacks as political opponents targeted various council secretariats.
