President Bola Tinubu has directed the Nigeria Police Force to protect local government secretariats in Rivers State from arsonists and vandals. This comes after hoodlums, dissatisfied with the outcome of Saturday’s local government election, burned down several council secretariats in Rivers State.

Presidential Spokesman Bayo Onanuga made the announcement on Monday, October 7, in a statement citing the President’s deep concern over reports of arson and explosions in the state.

Tinubu urged political actors, including Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Nyesom Wike and Governor Siminalayi Fubara, to calm the situation and discourage their supporters from engaging in violence or destructive actions.

Tinubu also emphasized that self-help has no place in a democratic system, especially after 25 years of continuous democracy. He believes the judiciary can settle all political disputes, and the outcome of this election should be no exception. The affected local government secretariats include Emohua, Eleme, and Ikwerre, which were set ablaze by suspected arsonists.

The Inspector-General of Police had earlier ordered the withdrawal of police personnel from the state’s secretariats of the 23 LGAs. However, Tinubu’s directive aims to restore order and ensure the security of public institutions.