Jonathan Breaks Silence on emergency rule in Rivers State
….Former President Jonathan Speaks at Haske Satumari Foundation Colloquium
Former President Goodluck Jonathan has voiced his concerns over the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State, warning that the suspension of elected officials could severely damage Nigeria’s international reputation.
He made these remarks during the Haske Satumari Foundation Colloquium in Abuja on Saturday, where he emphasized the far-reaching consequences of political instability on the nation’s image and investment climate.
Jonathan pointed out that decisions taken by key actors in the executive and legislative arms of government contribute significantly to how Nigeria is perceived on the global stage. He noted that political turbulence, especially one that results in the removal or suspension of elected officials, portrays the country as unstable and unpredictable, which could deter foreign investors and strain diplomatic relations.
“Suspending elected officials in Rivers State or anywhere else does not just affect the local political landscape—it has repercussions beyond our borders,” he said.
“These actions by key actors in the executive and legislative arms of government paint the country in a negative light.”
The former president, known for his reluctance to interfere in active political disputes, acknowledged that former leaders typically refrain from making public statements on governance issues to avoid exacerbating political tensions. However, he stressed that when the image of the country is at stake, it becomes necessary to speak up.
“It is not the norm for former presidents to comment on issues in the polity so as not to heat up the system,” Jonathan admitted. “But the reputation of the country and how much investment we attract is heavily dependent on the actions of the executive, legislature, and judiciary.”
Jonathan’s comments highlight the intrinsic link between political stability and economic prosperity. Investors, both local and international, often assess the level of governance stability before committing funds to a country. Political disruptions such as the suspension of elected officials can signal uncertainty, discouraging investment and economic growth.
He emphasized that Nigeria’s ability to attract foreign direct investment (FDI) depends not just on economic policies but also on the stability and predictability of its political environment.
As tensions continue in Rivers State, Jonathan’s remarks serve as a reminder that political disputes should be handled within democratic frameworks, ensuring that due process is followed.
He urged political actors to engage in dialogue and avoid actions that could undermine Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
The former president’s intervention comes at a critical time when political actors in Rivers State are at odds over governance issues. His cautionary remarks underscore the need for restraint, institutional respect, and a commitment to protecting Nigeria’s democratic image on the global stage.
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