The actions paint the country in a negative light – Goodluck Jonathan speaks on State of Emergency in Rivers State
Former President Dr. Goodluck Jonathan has expressed concerns that the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara and other elected officials in Rivers State tarnishes Nigeria’s reputation.
Speaking as the Chairman at the Haske Satumari Foundation Colloquium in Abuja on Saturday, March 22, Jonathan stated, “These actions by key actors in the executive and legislative arms of government paint the country in a negative light.”
He acknowledged that former presidents typically refrain from commenting on political matters to avoid escalating tensions. However, he noted that widespread calls from Nigerians prompted him to speak on the developments in Rivers State.
Jonathan emphasized that a country’s global image and ability to attract investments are directly influenced by the conduct of its executive, legislative, and judicial bodies.
He also criticized the situation where an individual could influence the judiciary, arguing that such interference erodes public trust in the legal system.
On Tuesday, March 18, President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State amid the ongoing political crisis. In a nationwide broadcast, Tinubu announced the six-month suspension of Governor Fubara, his deputy, Professor Ngozi Odu, and the state House of Assembly members, appointing a sole administrator to oversee the state’s affairs.
