Former President Goodluck Jonathan has voiced his concerns over the suspension of Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and state lawmakers, following the declaration of a state of emergency by President Bola Tinubu.
Speaking at the Haske Satumari Foundation Colloquium in Abuja on Saturday, Jonathan expressed his reservations about the decision, warning that such actions could harm Nigeria’s reputation and deter investment.
President Tinubu’s move, which led to the appointment of retired Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas, as the state’s sole administrator, was backed by both chambers of the National Assembly. The decision stemmed from ongoing political disputes between Governor Fubara and the state legislature.
Jonathan, however, cautioned against the precedent set by such interventions. He pointed out that former presidents typically refrain from commenting on government decisions to avoid escalating tensions but felt compelled to speak due to the calls from Nigerians, particularly those from the Niger Delta.
“As a former president and a leader from the Niger Delta, I was urged to comment on this situation,” he stated. “Traditionally, former leaders around the world avoid making statements on the actions of sitting presidents to prevent unnecessary tension. But what is happening in Nigeria today, particularly in Rivers State, raises serious concerns.”
He also criticized the apparent erosion of judicial independence, arguing that when the judiciary fails to uphold justice, it weakens the nation as a whole.
“Our key institutions—from the executive to the legislature and judiciary—know the right course of action, yet they refuse to follow it,” Jonathan remarked. “This is not ignorance; it is a deliberate disregard for the principles of good governance.”
The former president highlighted how governance decisions, including judicial and legislative actions, affect Nigeria’s global reputation. He noted that beyond issues like cybercrime, the conduct of government officials plays a crucial role in how Nigerians are treated internationally.
“Why do Nigerians face challenges at international airports? It’s not just because of fraudsters, but because of the actions taken by our government institutions,” he said. “No investor will risk their money in a country where judicial independence is compromised, where verdicts are dictated by political figures.”
Jonathan called on public officials to uphold integrity, emphasizing that nation-building requires sacrifice.
“If we want to create a country that future generations will be proud of, we must commit to doing what is right, no matter the cost,” he stated. “Whether you are in the executive, legislative, or judicial arm of government, the responsibility is on all of us to promote justice and fairness.”
He concluded by stressing the importance of continuous efforts toward social change, urging collaboration among civil society, the private sector, and the government to uphold democratic values and good governance.
