Following the destruction of local government secretariats in Rivers State by suspected thugs allegedly loyal to F.C.T Minister and former governor Nyesom Wike, President Bola Tinubu has ordered the Nigeria Police Force to protect the secretariats and restore peace in the area.
This directive comes after some council secretariats were set ablaze by hoodlums angered by the outcome of Saturday’s local government election.
Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga made the announcement on Monday, stating that the President was deeply concerned about reports of violence, including acts of arson and explosions, in the oil-rich state.
“In response to recent tensions after last Saturday’s local government elections, the President has expressed serious concern over incidents of arson and violence,” Onanuga said.
Tinubu called on all political stakeholders to reduce tensions and advise their supporters against violent or destructive actions. He tasked law enforcement agencies with restoring peace and maintaining law and order immediately.
While giving instructions to the police, the President emphasized the importance of protecting public institutions from harm.
“Public facilities built with taxpayer money must be safeguarded from vandalism,” he said.
President Tinubu also reiterated that taking the law into one’s own hands has no place in a democratic society, especially after 25 years of uninterrupted democracy. He urged political actors to resolve any electoral disputes through the judiciary, ensuring that legal avenues are respected.
Violence erupted in at least four local government areas in Rivers State. Parts of the secretariat buildings in Eleme, Ikwerre, and Emohua were set ablaze, while sporadic gunfire was reported in Ahoada East as efforts to resist the newly elected council officials intensified.
The attacks on local government offices came after the police commissioner withdrew officers stationed at the 23 council secretariats. Despite this, Governor Siminalayi Fubara insisted that the election proceed as planned.
The election, held amid growing tension, saw the Action People’s Party (APP) secure 22 of the 23 chairmanship seats, while the Action Alliance (AA) won the remaining one.
Governor Fubara swore in the newly elected local government chairmen on Sunday, but some of them faced violent opposition as they assumed office the following day. Several council secretariats were targeted and set on fire by political rivals.
