-Deborah Akinyosoye
President Bola Tinubu has directed Kayode Egbetokun, the inspector general of police, to restore security and maintain peace, law and order in local government secretariats in Rivers state.
The president’s directive comes amid the destruction of some LGA secretariats in Rivers state by suspected hoodlums.
The incidents occurred after the swearing in ceremony of newly elected LGA chairs and their deputies in the state.
Prior to the incidents, the IGP had ordered the immediate withdrawal of policemen from the 23 LGA secretariats.
Announcing the development, Grace Iringe-Koko, police spokesperson in Rivers state, said the IGP’s directive “is in line with the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to ensure neutrality and the smooth functioning of democratic institutions”.
But in a statement on Monday by Bayo Onanuga, special adviser on information and strategy to the president, Tinubu ordered the police to safeguard government facilities from vandalism.
“President Tinubu directed the police to restore and maintain peace, law, and order immediately,” the statement reads.
“While instructing law enforcement agencies to bring the situation under control, he emphasised the need to ensure the security of public institutions.
“President Tinubu said government facilities built with public funds must be safeguarded from vandalism.”
Tinubu also called on Siminalayi Fubara, governor of Rivers state, political leaders and their supporters to exercise restraint and uphold the rule of law.
He urged all political actors to “de-escalate the situation” and discourage their supporters from engaging in violence or destructive actions.
He expressed deep concern over reports of arson and explosions in the state, stressing that, “self-help has no place in a democratic system, especially after 25 years of continuous democracy”.
“The judiciary can settle all political disputes, and the outcome of this election should be no exception,” Tinubu added.