Victor Ezeja
As people of Rivers State conduct local government election, former Nigeria’s President, Dr Goodluck Jonathan, has warned against any action that may lead to the “collapse” of democracy in the country.
Jonathan’s warning comes amid crisis trailing the exercise in the past few days.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelWhile loyalists of the immediate past governor of the state, Nyesom Wike, opposed the conduct of the election on Saturday, 5th October as earlier planned, the incumbent Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, insisted that the election must be held.
In a statement on Saturday, the former president said political happenings in Rivers State in the past days are a cause for serious concern for everyone, especially lovers of democracy in the country.
Jonathan emphasised that “elections are the cornerstone of democracy” as they offer citizens the opportunity to choose who governs them.
READ ALSO: Rivers LG Elections: Atiku Commends Fubara For Going Ahead Despite Opposition
He said every election, whether at national or sub-national level, is important because it reflects democracy in action and stressed that it is the responsibility of all stakeholders, especially state institutions, to work towards promoting sound democratic culture through the conduct of free, fair and credible election.
“Democracy is our collective asset, its growth and progress is dependent on the government’s commitment to uphold the rule of law and pursue the interest of peace and justice at all times,” he stated.
The former Nigerian leader warned that institutions like security agencies must refrain from actions that could lead to breakdown of law and order.
According to him, “Rivers State represents the gateway to the Niger Delta and threat to peace in the state could have huge security implications in the region.”
He therefore warned all political actors in the state, especially in the ongoing crisis regarding conduct of LG election, to be careful with their action. He urged them to be “patriotic in the pursuit of their political ambition and relevance,” so it does not lead to instability in the state.
READ ALSO: Rivers LG Polls: Voting Ongoing Despite Explosion, Protests
Jonathan further called on the National Judicial Commission (NJC) to take appropriate steps in curbing indiscriminate court orders and judgments, especially those of concurrent jurisdiction giving conflicting orders, adding that it will not only ridicule the judicial institution but also “derail our 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 crystal that will form the block that will collapse our democracy. State institutions especially the police and the judiciary and all other stakeholders must always work for public interest and promote common good such as peace, justice and equality,” he advised.
Victor Ezeja is a passionate journalist with seven years of experience writing on economy, politics and energy. He holds a Master's degree in Mass Communication.
