Former President Condemns Emergency Rule, Warns of Threat to Democracy
By Afnews Correspondent | March 22, 2025
Former President Goodluck Jonathan has openly criticized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over the suspension of Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, Ngozi Odu, and the Rivers State House of Assembly. Jonathan described the move as a direct assault on democracy and warned that it could damage Nigeria’s global reputation.
Speaking at the Haske Satumari Foundation Colloquium in Abuja on Saturday, Jonathan expressed deep concerns over the federal government’s interference in a democratically elected administration. He argued that such actions set a dangerous precedent that could destabilize governance at all levels.
Jonathan Condemns Federal Interference
Jonathan did not hold back in his condemnation of Tinubu’s decision, describing it as an overreach of executive power. He emphasized that a democratically elected government should not be suspended arbitrarily under the guise of emergency rule.
“These actions by key actors in the executive and legislative arms of government paint Nigeria in a negative light,” Jonathan stated.
The former president further pointed out that the federal government’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State was unwarranted. He noted that while political tensions existed between Governor Fubara and the State House of Assembly, such conflicts should be resolved through legal and democratic processes rather than executive fiat.
Jonathan’s remarks come at a time when the country is grappling with increasing concerns over the erosion of democratic institutions. His comments have reignited debates about whether the move was meant to restore order or a strategic power play to strengthen control over the oil-rich state.
Judiciary Under Fire: Jonathan Alleges External Influence in Supreme Court Decisions
Beyond the executive action, Jonathan also criticized what he called “external manipulation” of the judiciary. He alleged that powerful individuals were influencing Supreme Court decisions to serve political interests, thereby eroding public trust in the judiciary.
“When court rulings begin to reflect the desires of a few individuals rather than the principles of justice, we are walking a dangerous path,” Jonathan warned.
He further noted that such interference in the judiciary discourages foreign investment, as investors prefer stable and predictable legal systems.
“The image of a country and how much investment it attracts is heavily dependent on the actions of the executive, legislature, and judiciary,” he stated.
Jonathan’s comments add to the growing list of concerns over judicial independence, particularly after recent controversial rulings that have favored the federal government.
Political Tensions Escalate in Rivers State
The crisis in Rivers State has continued to deepen following the suspension of Governor Fubara and his administration. Many critics view Tinubu’s decision as an extension of the ongoing political rivalry between Fubara and his former ally, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.
Wike, a former governor of Rivers State, has been at the center of political battles in the state, with analysts believing that the current crisis is part of a larger struggle for dominance.
As the conflict intensifies, there are fears that it could trigger wider instability in the region, particularly given Rivers State’s economic significance as one of Nigeria’s leading oil-producing states.
Reactions and Legal Challenge Looming
Jonathan’s statement has sparked reactions from various political stakeholders, civil society organizations, and legal experts. Some have called for immediate legal action to challenge the declaration of emergency rule, arguing that it contradicts Nigeria’s democratic principles.
A legal suit has already been filed at the Federal High Court in Abuja, challenging the suspension of the Rivers State government. The case, marked FHC/CS/550/2025, questions whether the president has the constitutional authority to remove an elected governor and lawmakers without due process.
Many Nigerians are now watching to see how the courts will respond to the legal battle, especially given Jonathan’s concerns over judicial interference.
Is This a Democratic Crackdown or a Security Measure?
The controversy has raised critical questions: Is Tinubu’s decision a necessary step to restore order in Rivers State, or is it a calculated move to weaken opposition and consolidate power?
While the federal government argues that the declaration of emergency rule is aimed at preventing chaos, critics believe it is a politically motivated attempt to control the state’s governance.
With public debate intensifying, the coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether Rivers State regains its democratic structure or falls deeper into political turmoil.
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Key Takeaways:
- Former President Jonathan condemned Tinubu’s suspension of Rivers State Governor Fubara and his administration.
- He accused the federal government of undermining democracy and warned that such actions tarnish Nigeria’s global reputation.
- Jonathan also alleged external interference in Supreme Court rulings, eroding judicial independence.
- Legal battles are underway to challenge the legitimacy of the emergency rule in Rivers State.
- The crisis is linked to the ongoing political struggle between Fubara and former Governor Nyesom Wike.
What do you think? Is this a step towards restoring order or a political takeover? Share your thoughts in the comments!
