Rivers State In Turmoil: Tinubu Unleashes Strong Warning, Orders Police Crackdown

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed strong disapproval of the violent incidents that erupted in Rivers State following Saturday’s Local Government Area elections.

According to Naija News, after the elections concluded, Governor Sim Fubara swore in the newly elected chairmen of the 23 local government areas on Sunday. However, chaos ensued on Monday when hoodlums stormed several Rivers LGA secretariats, causing destruction and attempting to prevent the newly elected officials from assuming office.

In response to these developments, President Tinubu, through his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, issued a statement on Monday voicing concern over the reported acts of arson and explosions in the state.

The President urged Governor Fubara, political leaders, and their supporters to exercise caution and uphold the rule of law. He also called on security agencies to swiftly restore peace and order across the state.

The statement read, “President Bola Tinubu has called on Governor Siminalayi Fubara, political leaders, and their supporters in Rivers State to practice restraint and respect the rule of law.”

Referring to the unrest that followed the recent local government council election, President Tinubu expressed alarm at reports of arson and explosions and urged political leaders to ease tensions. He also instructed the police to take immediate action to restore and maintain peace, law, and order.

The President emphasized the importance of protecting public institutions, stating that government facilities funded by public resources must not be subjected to vandalism. He further underscored that resorting to self-help has no place in a democracy, particularly after 25 years of continuous democratic governance.

President Tinubu also highlighted that political disputes should be resolved through the judiciary, stressing that this election should be no exception.