In the wake of rising tensions following last Saturday’s local government council elections in Rivers State, President Bola Tinubu has called on Governor Siminalayi Fubara, political leaders, and their supporters to exercise restraint and uphold the rule of law.
The president’s appeal comes as reports of violence, arson, and explosions have surfaced in the state, threatening to destabilize the region.
Expressing deep concern over the deteriorating situation, President Tinubu urged all political actors to de-escalate tensions and discourage their followers from engaging in any form of violence or destruction.
He emphasized that violent actions undermine democratic principles and called on leaders to prioritize peace and stability.
In a strong directive to law enforcement, Tinubu ordered the Nigerian Police to immediately restore law and order in Rivers State.
He tasked them with ensuring the protection of lives, public property, and institutions, warning that government facilities, which were constructed with public funds, must be safeguarded from acts of vandalism.
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President Tinubu reminded the political leaders in Rivers State that taking the law into their own hands is unacceptable in a democratic system, especially after Nigeria’s 25 years of uninterrupted democratic governance.
He stressed the importance of allowing the judiciary to handle political disputes, including any arising from the recent election, and reaffirmed his confidence in the courts’ ability to deliver justice.
“The judiciary is the bedrock of our democracy, and all political disputes must be resolved through the legal process,” Tinubu said. “We cannot afford to allow self-help or chaos to undermine the progress we have made as a nation.”
The president’s call for calm comes as tensions continue to rise following the announcement of results from the local government elections. The incidents of violence have cast a shadow over the democratic process in the state, prompting concerns about political stability.
Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, in a statement on behalf of the president, echoed Tinubu’s sentiments, urging all parties involved to respect the rule of law and seek peaceful resolutions to their grievances.
The government remains committed to ensuring that justice prevails, and law enforcement agencies have been directed to act swiftly in restoring peace across the state.
With Rivers State at a critical juncture, observers will be watching closely to see how local authorities respond to the president’s directive and whether the escalating tensions can be brought under control without further violence.