Goodluck Jonathan: Rivers State Crisis Tarnishes Nigeria’s Image

 

Former President Dr. Goodluck Jonathan has expressed concern over the suspension of Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara and other elected officials, stating that the move damages Nigeria’s global reputation.

Speaking as the Chairman of the Haske Satumari Foundation Colloquium in Abuja on Saturday, March 22, Jonathan criticized the actions of key players in both the executive and legislative arms of government, noting that such decisions cast the country in a negative light.

“These actions by key actors in the executive and legislative arms of government paint the country in a negative light.”

While acknowledging that former presidents typically avoid commenting on national issues to prevent political tension, Jonathan said he felt compelled to speak following calls from concerned Nigerians urging him to address the situation in Rivers State.

He emphasized that a country’s global perception and ability to attract investment are largely influenced by the actions of its executive, legislature, and judiciary. He also raised concerns about judicial independence, stating that when individuals can manipulate the judiciary, public trust in the system is eroded.

The political turmoil in Rivers escalated on March 18 when President Bola Tinubu declared a State of Emergency in the state. As part of the emergency measures, Governor Fubara, his deputy Professor Ngozi Odu, and members of the State House of Assembly were suspended for six months, with a sole administrator appointed to govern the state.