President Bola Tinubu has
directed the police to restore and maintain peace, law and order in Rivers State immediately.
He also called on the Rivers Governor Siminalayi Fubara, political leaders and their supporters to exercise restraint and uphold the rule of law.
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.
He urged all political actors to de-escalate the situation and discourage their supporters from engaging in violence or destructive actions, Mr Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President, Information and Strategy, said in a statement.
While instructing law enforcement agencies to bring the situation under control, the president emphasised the need to ensure the security of public institutions.
Tinubu said government facilities built with public funds must be safeguarded from vandalism.
He stressed that self-help had no place in a democratic system, especially after 25 years of continuous democracy.
Tinubu said the judiciary could settle all political disputes, and the outcome of the election should be no exception. (NAN)