Mothercloud News

Former President Goodluck Jonathan has called on Nigeria’s executive, legislature, and judiciary to act responsibly and make decisions that uphold the country’s democratic values. He emphasized that the nation’s global reputation and ability to attract investment depend on good governance.

Jonathan made these remarks in response to the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State while speaking in Abuja on Saturday as the Chairman of the Haske Satumari Foundation Colloquium, which focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).

State of Emergency in Rivers State

President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State on Tuesday following the prolonged political turmoil in the region. As part of this decision:

• Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and members of the House of Assembly were suspended for six months.
• Retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, a former Chief of Naval Staff, was appointed as the sole administrator of the state.
• Both chambers of the National Assembly approved the emergency rule by voice votes on Thursday.

The decision has sparked criticism, particularly over the suspension of elected officials. Some critics argue that Jonathan’s 2013 emergency rule in Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa states—triggered by Boko Haram insurgency—did not involve removing state leaders, setting a different precedent.

Jonathan’s Take: “Leaders Pretending to Sleep”

Jonathan responded to calls for his opinion on the Rivers crisis using an Indian proverb:

“If somebody is really sleeping, you can easily wake them up, but if someone is pretending to sleep, it will be difficult to wake them up.”

He suggested that Nigeria’s key political actors know the right thing to do but are deliberately avoiding it, making resolution difficult.

Call for Ethical Leadership

Jonathan emphasized that good governance involves protecting the interests of all citizens. He urged leaders to:

• Avoid compromising their offices and prioritize the country’s long-term stability.
• Embrace diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) as a tool for national unity.
• Recognize that nations that promote youth empowerment, gender equality, and regional balance tend to be more resilient and innovative.

Jonathan concluded by reminding leaders that every decision they make impacts ythe entire nation, urging them to act in the best interest of Nigeria’s future generations.