Rivers Political Crisis: Jonathan Cautions Against Derailing Nigeria’s Democracy

Former president, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, has warned that the political crisis in Rivers State could affect the country’s democracy.

Jonathan said the political situation in Rivers State resembles the crisis of the Old Western Region, which is said to have contributed to the collapse of the First Republic from 1960 to 1966.

The former president also expressed concern that the proliferation of court orders and judgements, especially those of concurrent jurisdiction giving conflicting orders, would derail the country’s democracy if the National Judicial Commission (NJC) fails to address this crisis.

Jonathan, who was reacting to the conflict surrounding the local government election in Rivers State yesterday, said the state represents the gateway to the Niger Delta and threat to its peace could have huge security implications in the region.

He further said institutions of the state, especially security agencies, must refrain from actions that could lead to breakdown of law and order.

He said the political happenings in Rivers State in the past days are a cause for serious concern for everyone, especially lovers of democracy and all actors within the peace and security sector of the nation.

“Democracy is our collective asset, its growth and progress depend on government’s commitment to uphold the rule of law and pursue peace and justice at all times.

“Let me sound a note of caution to all political actors in this crisis to be circumspect and patriotic in the pursuit of their political ambitions and relevance.

“I, therefore, warn that Rivers should not be used as crystal that will form the block that will collapse our democracy,” he said.

He said elections are the cornerstone of democracy because they are the primary source of legitimacy.

“This process renews the faith of citizens in their country as it affords them the opportunity to have a say on who governs them.

“Every election is significant, whether at national or sub-national levels as it counts as a gain and honour to democracy.

“It is the responsibility of all stakeholders, especially state institutions, to work towards the promotion of sound democratic culture of which periodic election stands as a noble virtue,” he said.