RIVERS: Tinubu orders police to secure LG secretariats

Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga announced this today, following the destruction of several council secretariats by hoodlums angered by the results of Saturday’s local government elections in the state.

“The President expressed deep concern over reports of arson and explosions following the recent local government elections,” Onanuga said.

Tinubu called on political leaders to calm the situation and discourage their supporters from resorting to violence or destructive acts.

He instructed the police to swiftly restore peace, law, and order, stressing the importance of protecting public institutions.

“Government facilities funded by public resources must be protected from vandalism,” the President emphasized.

Tinubu also highlighted that self-help has no place in a democracy, particularly after 25 years of uninterrupted democratic governance.

He reminded all parties that the judiciary is the appropriate avenue for resolving political disputes, including those arising from the election.

Violence erupted in at least four local government areas, with parts of buildings in Eleme, Ikwerre, and Emohua set ablaze. Gunshots were also reported in Ahoada East as new council officials faced resistance.

The attacks on the local government secretariats followed the withdrawal of police officers guarding the 23 council secretariats by the state’s commissioner of police.

Despite the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the All Progressives Congress (APC), and the police opting out of the election, Governor Siminalayi Fubara insisted it proceed on Saturday.

The Action People’s Party (APP) won 22 out of 23 chairmanship positions, while the Action Alliance (AA) secured one.

Fubara swore in the newly elected chairmen on Sunday, but some were attacked upon taking office today, and several council secretariats were set on fire by political opponents.