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Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu Calls for Restraint in Rivers State Amid Post-Election Violence

President Bola Tinubu has urged Governor Siminalayi Fubara, political leaders, and their supporters in Rivers State to exercise restraint and uphold the rule of law following reports of arson and vandalism after Saturday’s local government elections. The President emphasized that self-help has no place in a democratic system and encouraged political actors to settle differences in court.

Rivers State Election Results

The Action People’s Party (APP) dominated the elections, securing 314 out of 319 councillorship seats across 23 local government areas. The Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission announced the results, with the APP winning 314 wards, and other parties clinching one seat each.

Rejection and Tensions

The Rivers State PDP and APC factions rejected the election’s conduct and outcome, vowing to challenge the results in court. Governor Fubara’s swearing-in of newly elected council chairmen sparked tension, with supporters from each camp laying siege to public facilities.

Presidential Directive

President Tinubu directed the police to restore and maintain peace, law, and order immediately. He stressed the need to safeguard public institutions built with public funds from vandalism. The President’s special adviser, Bayo Onanuga, stated that the judiciary can settle all political disputes, and this election’s outcome should be no exception.

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