Tinubu orders police to secure Rivers LG secretariats after renewed violence
President Bola Tinubu has directed the Nigerian Police Force (NPF) to provide security at all the 23 local government secretariats in Rivers State following the latest round of violence.
The President’s order was conveyed in a statement by his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, on Monday, October 7, 2024.
This comes following a spate of attacks in several parts of the state suspected to be the handiwork of hoodlums deployed by some aggrieved politicians who are displeased with the outcome of local government elections on Saturday.
“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,” Onanuga said.
Tinubu calls for de-escalation in Rivers
Tinubu also urged all political stakeholders to de-escalate the situation and prevail on their supporters to desist from perpetuating violence and destructive actions.
“President Tinubu directed the police to restore and maintain peace, law, and order immediately.
“While instructing law enforcement agencies to bring the situation under control, he emphasised the need to ensure the security of public institutions.
“President Tinubu said government facilities built with public funds must be safeguarded from vandalism,” the presidential aide added.
The President warned against resorting to self-help in a democratic system, especially after 25 years of uninterrupted democracy.
He noted that the judiciary is constitutionally empowered to settle all political disputes, and the outcome of the Rivers election should be no exception.
Heightened tension in Rivers after police withdrawal
Some parts of Rivers were engulfed in violence on Monday with no less than four local government areas affected by the clashes.
Buildings in Eleme, Ikwerre, and Emohua secretariats were set ablaze, while sporadic gunshots rented the air in Ahoada East to resist the new council officials.
The incidents happened after the withdrawal of the police officers securing the 23 council secretariats by the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun.
