President Bola Tinubu has directed the Nigeria Police Force to safeguard local government secretariats in Rivers State following reports of arson and vandalism after Saturday’s local government elections.
The directive came after several secretariats were set ablaze by hoodlums angered by the election results.
Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga issued a statement on Monday, highlighting the president’s concern over escalating violence in the oil-rich state. “In response to recent tensions following Saturday’s local government election, the President expressed deep concern over reports of arson and explosions,” Onanuga stated.
President Tinubu urged political leaders to de-escalate tensions and discourage their supporters from resorting to violence. “The President has instructed the police to restore and maintain peace, law, and order with immediate effect,” the statement read.
Tinubu emphasized that law enforcement must ensure the security of public institutions, adding that facilities built with public funds must be protected from destruction.
The President further stressed that self-help has no place in a democracy, particularly after 25 years of continuous democratic governance.
He urged all parties to resolve disputes through the judiciary, which remains the appropriate channel for addressing political grievances, including those related to the recent election.
More updates to follow.
