President Bola Tinubu has ordered the Inspector General of Police, Dr Kayode Egbotun to ensure the safety of local government officials in Rivers and immediately restore peace, law, and order in the state.
The marching order is coming after political thugs attacked Eleme, Ikwerre and Obio/Akpor local government secretariats following the local government council elections on Saturday.
In a statement made by his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, Mr Tinubu noted the importance of law enforcement agencies taking swift action to control the situation.
He stressed that public institutions, funded by taxpayers, must be protected from vandalism and any form of unrest.
Mr President further declared that self-help has no place in a democratic system, particularly in a nation that has enjoyed 25 years of uninterrupted democracy.
He reiterated that the judiciary is equipped to resolve all political disputes, asserting that the resolution of the current electoral issues should be no different.
Also, the statement added that the “President 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. “
