Former President Goodluck Jonathan has issued a warning regarding the potential derailment of Nigeria’s democracy due to ongoing tensions surrounding the local government elections in Rivers State. The state has been in the spotlight recently, particularly following a court ruling that prohibited police from providing security for the elections and ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) not to release the voter register to the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC).
In a statement released on Saturday, Jonathan drew parallels between the current political climate in Rivers and historical crises, cautioning that unresolved issues in the state could threaten national democracy. “The political situation in Rivers State mirrors our past, the crisis of the Old Western Region. I, therefore, warn that Rivers should not be used as a crystal that will form the block that will collapse our democracy,” he stated.
He emphasized the critical role of state institutions, particularly the police and judiciary, in safeguarding public interest and promoting peace, justice, and equality. Jonathan expressed concern over the recent political developments in Rivers State, stating that they pose a serious threat to democracy and the security landscape of the nation.
“Elections are the cornerstone of democracy because they are the primary source of legitimacy,” he remarked. “This process renews citizens’ faith in their country as it allows them to have a say in who governs them. Every election, whether at the national or sub-national level, is significant and contributes to the honor of democracy.”
He called on all stakeholders, especially state institutions, to foster a robust democratic culture, underscoring that periodic elections are a vital aspect of this process.
Jonathan also urged the National Judicial Commission (NJC) to address the proliferation of conflicting court orders and judgments, warning that such inconsistencies could undermine the judiciary’s credibility and endanger democracy in Nigeria.
