President Bola Tinubu has directed the Nigeria Police to provide security to local government officials in Rivers State and take immediate steps to restore peace, law, and order following the recent violence in the state. In a statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu emphasized the importance of protecting public institutions and ensuring the security of government facilities built with public funds.
The President condemned acts of self-help, stating that such behavior has no place in a democratic society, particularly after 25 years of uninterrupted democracy in Nigeria. He stressed that the judiciary remains the appropriate channel for resolving political disputes, including those arising from the recent local government elections in Rivers State.
President Tinubu urged Governor Siminalayi Fubara, political leaders, and their supporters to exercise restraint and respect the rule of law. He expressed concern over reports of arson and explosions following the election and called for de-escalation, encouraging political actors to dissuade their supporters from resorting to violence or destructive actions.