KEY POINTS

• President Tinubu directs police to restore security in Rivers State.
• He emphasizes the judiciary’s role in settling political disputes.
• The President urges political leaders to avoid inciting violence.

In response to escalating tensions in Rivers State, President Bola Tinubu has directed the Inspector General of Police to restore order and safeguard local government officials.

The President emphasized the need for law enforcement to ensure peace and security across the state, particularly in protecting government facilities from vandalism.

Police instructed to maintain security in Rivers

In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu underscored that public properties built with taxpayer money must be preserved.

He noted that self-help or taking the law into one’s hands has no place in a democracy, particularly after 25 years of uninterrupted democratic governance in Nigeria.

The President highlighted the importance of resolving political disputes through judicial processes, encouraging all parties involved to seek legal solutions.

According to Vanguard, he stated that the judiciary is well-equipped to handle these issues, and the recently concluded election in Rivers should be no exception

Calls for restraint from political leaders

President Tinubu appealed to Governor Siminalayi Fubara, along with other political leaders in Rivers State, to exercise restraint and maintain respect for the rule of law.

In addition, the President expressed deep concern over reports of violence, including incidents of arson and explosions, following the local government elections.

The President urged all stakeholders to de-escalate the situation, discouraging any further acts of violence or destruction.

Furthermore , he called on political actors to refrain from encouraging their supporters to engage in actions that could further destabilize the state.

Security concerns in Rivers amid election tensions

The local government elections in Rivers have seen increasing tensions, with the police being accused of withdrawing their officers due to a court order issued by the Federal High Court in Abuja.

Moreover, President Tinubu has directed security agencies to maintain law and order in the face of rising unrest and ensure that public safety is prioritized.

The President’s appeal for calm and restraint comes as reports of violent incidents, including the setting ablaze of local government headquarters and clashes that have resulted in deaths, have surfaced.

Tinubu reiterated his commitment to maintaining peace and stability in Rivers and throughout Nigeria.