Former President Goodluck Jonathan has warned that the suspension of elected officials in Rivers State could harm Nigeria’s reputation.
Speaking at the Haske Satumari Foundation Colloquium in Abuja on Saturday, Jonathan criticized the actions of key players in both the executive and legislative arms of government, stating that such moves portray the country negatively.
Addressing the ongoing political turmoil in Rivers State, he acknowledged that former presidents typically refrain from commenting on political issues to avoid escalating tensions. However, he stressed that Nigeria’s global image and its ability to attract investments are directly linked to the conduct of its government institutions—the executive, legislature, and judiciary.
Jonathan’s remarks followed the recent state of emergency declared by President Bola Tinubu in Rivers State. The decision led to the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and members of the State House of Assembly for six months—a move that has drawn widespread criticism. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governors have condemned the decision as unconstitutional, warning that it threatens Nigeria’s democracy.
Explaining why he chose to speak out, Jonathan said he was compelled by numerous calls from concerned Nigerians. He criticized the growing trend of political interference in the judiciary, emphasizing that such practices erode public trust in the legal system.
“True leadership is about creating a society where no one is oppressed,” Jonathan stated. “It requires embracing diversity, equity, and inclusion to drive social change.”
He further argued that peace in Rivers State cannot be achieved through suspensions and exclusionary politics. Instead, he called for leadership that values unity and ensures the protection of all citizens.
“I have witnessed firsthand how diversity and inclusion can unite people and unlock their full potential,” he said. “Conversely, I have seen how the absence of these values leads to division, inequality, and unrest.”
Jonathan highlighted his own presidency as an example, noting that policies promoting gender equality, youth empowerment, and regional balance helped bridge divides and foster national unity.
According to him, any nation that upholds these principles will be innovative, resilient, and harmonious.
