Former President Goodluck Jonathan has spoken out against the recent suspension of Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara and other elected officials in the state, calling the decision harmful to Nigeria’s image.
He made the remark while speaking at the Haske Satumari Foundation Colloquium in Abuja on Saturday.
“These actions by key actors in the executive and legislative arms of government paint the country in a negative light,” he said.
His reaction follows President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State. Tinubu suspended Governor Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and all members of the state House of Assembly for six months. The president said the move was necessary to restore stability amid political tensions between the governor and lawmakers.
On Tuesday, Tinubu also appointed retired Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas, as the state’s sole administrator. The Senate and House of Representatives approved the emergency rule on Thursday.
Jonathan, however, warned that such actions could affect the country’s ability to attract investment.
He explained that former presidents usually avoid commenting on political matters to prevent further tension, but he felt compelled to speak due to calls from Nigerians, especially as a leader from the Niger Delta.
Jonathan also criticized interference in the judiciary, saying it undermines public trust.
“When an individual can dictate to the judiciary what to do, it makes it difficult for anyone to have faith in the judiciary,” he said.
