Former President Goodluck Jonathan has condemned the imposition of emergency rule in Rivers State, describing it as a dangerous abuse of power that threatens Nigeria’s democratic stability. Speaking at the Haske Satumari Foundation’s annual colloquium in Abuja, Jonathan criticized key figures in the executive, legislature, and judiciary for disregarding democratic principles and legal norms.
Jonathan, who refrained from mentioning President Bola Tinubu directly, accused government officials of manipulating power structures for political gain. He warned that the ongoing crisis could set a precedent for undermining elected governments, raising concerns about Nigeria’s federal structure.
“The key actors in Nigeria—the executive, the legislature, and the judiciary—know the right thing to do, but they are deliberately ignoring it,” Jonathan said. “This is a clear abuse of office, power, and privileges across all three arms of government.”
Political analysts argue that the suspension of a state governor through emergency rule represents an overreach that could destabilize democratic institutions. If unchecked, such actions could weaken state autonomy and erode public confidence in governance.
Beyond the political ramifications, Jonathan expressed deep concerns about the compromised state of Nigeria’s judiciary. He highlighted how judicial interference discourages foreign investors and damages the nation’s global reputation.
“No businessman will invest in a country where judges take directives from politicians,” he stated. “When the judiciary is compromised, the rule of law becomes meaningless, and the economy suffers.”
The fear of judicial manipulation raises broader concerns about economic stability, especially in Rivers State, a major contributor to Nigeria’s oil revenue. Investors require legal certainty, and any perception of political interference in the judiciary could drive capital away from Nigeria.
Rivers State’s political turmoil is not just an administrative issue—it has significant security implications. The Niger Delta region has a history of unrest linked to governance failures. Prolonged instability in Rivers could reignite tensions between local groups and the federal government, possibly fueling militancy and disrupting oil production.
Security experts warn that unresolved political disputes often create power vacuums that can be exploited by criminal networks. If the situation is not handled carefully, Nigeria could face new security threats that extend beyond Rivers State.
Jonathan urged political leaders to prioritize national stability over political maneuvering. He emphasized the need for ethical governance to ensure that Nigeria remains a viable democracy where the rule of law is upheld.
“If we want a nation where future generations can thrive, we must be willing to do what is right, even when it is inconvenient,” he said.
The event also featured discussions on governance beyond the Rivers crisis. Plateau State Governor Caleb Muftwang, represented by Plateau State University Acting Vice-Chancellor Shadrach Best, called for inclusive leadership that values diversity and equitable representation.
Kenyan Senator Crystal Asige highlighted similar governance challenges in both Kenya and Nigeria, particularly concerning the inclusion of persons with disabilities (PWDs). She pointed out that legal frameworks for political participation exist but remain ineffective due to weak enforcement and lack of political commitment.
“The political landscape remains impenetrable for us,” Asige said. “Despite constitutional mandates, meaningful representation for PWDs in government is still a distant reality.”
As Nigeria navigates this crisis, the actions of the executive, legislature, and judiciary will determine the country’s democratic resilience. Will the courts uphold their independence? Will lawmakers challenge executive overreach? Or will the Rivers emergency rule become a precedent for future political interventions?
These questions remain unanswered, but one thing is clear: how Nigeria handles this moment will shape its democratic future for years to come.