By Emma Ogbuehi
Five reportedly killed as violent clashes erupt in Rivers, Tinubu calls for de-escalation
The political crisis in Rivers State following last Saturday’s local government poll has assumed an ugly dimension with at least five people reportedly killed by armed hoodlums following shootings that erupted at various local government area secretariats on Monday.
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This is even as the Police have failed to make any official statement regarding the escalating violence.
Meanwhile, President Bola Tinubu has called for a de-escalation of tension, directing the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to provide security to Rivers State local government officials and maintain peace, law and order in Rivers State immediately.
There are indications that many of the casualties are youths allegedly loyal to the state governor, Sir Siminialayi Fubara.
Reports suggest that by Monday afternoon, approximately five individuals had been killed across four local government areas, while three councils — Eleme, Emohua, and Ikwerre — were set ablaze.
The violence reportedly broke out when the newly-elected local government chairmen, sworn in by the governor on Sunday, arrived at their respective council secretariats.
They encountered a group of youths opposed to their election, who claimed they were there to clean the premises for the former council chairmen, whose tenures had recently ended.
The situation escalated into shootings, resulting in numerous injuries from gunfire and the reported deaths of five individuals: one in Khana, three in Oyibo, and one in Ahoada-East.
Authorities are yet to respond to the incidents, leaving residents and local leaders on edge amid the violence.
Tinubu orders IGP to restore peace
Meanwhile, President Bola Tinubu has directed the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to provide security to Rivers State local government officials and maintain peace, law and order in Rivers State immediately.
While instructing law enforcement agencies to bring the situation under control, President Tinubu emphasised the need to ensure the security of public institutions.
The President, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, 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 statement further stated that the “President 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.”