BREAKING: Rivers govt sends urgent warning to citizens ahead of PEPT’s verdict

The Rivers state government is deeply concerned about potential disruptions to law and order caused by supporters of presidential candidates who may not be satisfied with the outcome of the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal (PEPT) judgment, set to be delivered on Wednesday, September 6.

The government emphasizes that election petitions and their results are fundamental components of our country’s democratic process. This process is built on the principles of the rule of law and the judicial system’s authority as the peaceful and ultimate resolver of societal disputes.

In a statement released to the media on Tuesday, September 5, Governor Siminalayi Fubara pointed out that individuals who may be disappointed with the PEPT’s decision have the option to exercise their right of appeal at the Supreme Court. At the Supreme Court, they will be obligated to accept the final verdict and its consequences.

Governor Fubara stressed that all citizens are bound by the rule of law, which strictly prohibits any form of violence or threats to public safety, peace, and security during democratic contests for political power and the right to govern the people.

The governor’s statement read in part:

“Accordingly, while the Rivers State Government recognizes the protest rights of citizens, it will not tolerate any illegal and unnecessary protest actions that negate the rule of law and undermine our collective rights to peace and security.

We, therefore, advise presidential candidates and their political parties to call their supporters and activists to order and ensure that they avoid actions that are capable of disrupting public safety, peace, and security in Rivers State.

“We wish to inform the public that we have placed security agencies on the highest level of alert and directed them to take all necessary measures to forestall any security breaches in Rivers State before, during, and after the judgment.

“We are satisfied with the assurances from the security agencies and the proactive measures they are taking to safeguard lives and property and sustain peace and security throughout the state.

“We urge residents to continue to be law-abiding and go about with their lawful activities without fear for their safety as adequate measures are in place to nip any security threat in the bud.

“However, we implore everyone not to hesitate to report any suspicious gatherings or activities around them to the attention of the security agencies for immediate action.”