The just concluded Local Government elections in Rivers State rather than being the long-desired peace in the state, ended up sparking a fresh level of chaos.
This fresh episode of drama started on Saturday.
That day was the day of the election.
This election divided the state into two.
While many people stormed the polling units to cast their votes, others took to the streets to protest against the elections.
According to them, it was against the court order.
The election took place without a glitch or interference, at least in many polling units.
Post Election Crisis
After the election, Governor Fubara swore in the newly elected council chairmen of the 23 local government areas of the state on Sunday.
Things escalated on Monday after the ceremony.
Hoodlums invaded many Rivers LGA secretariats to cause destruction and prevent newly elected officials from resuming their duties.
For hours, this development has sparked numerous reactions from many people.
Now, President Bola Tinubu has decided to share his two cents.
Tinubu Speaks On Rivers State Crisis
The Nigerian leader decried the violence in Rivers State.
In a statement on Monday through his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, expressed concern over the arson and explosion in the state.
President Tinubu urged Fubara, political leaders and their supporters in Rivers State to exercise restraint and uphold the rule of law.
He also called on the security operatives in the state to restore and maintain peace, law, and order immediately.
The statement reads: “President Bola Tinubu has called on Governor Siminalayi Fubara, political leaders and their supporters in Rivers State 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.
“President Tinubu directed the police to restore and maintain peace, law, and order immediately.
Also Read: Rivers: IGP Orders Immediate Withdrawal Of Personnel From LGA’s
“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.
He stressed that self-help has no place in a democratic system, especially after 25 years of continuous democracy.”
“According to President Tinubu, the judiciary can settle all political disputes, and the outcome of this election should be no exception.”
The face-off between the Rivers State Governor Fubara, and his acclaimed godfather and former governor Nyesom Wike did not start today.
Despite several interventions by political stakeholders and even the president himself, the crisis in the state still lingers with no end in sight.