By Habeeb Ibrahim
Former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan has expressed deep concern over the recent political developments in Rivers State, calling for caution among political actors as the state conducts its local government elections today, October 5.
Jonathan, in a statement, emphasized the crucial role that elections play in sustaining democracy, warning that any threats to peace and order in Rivers could have wider security implications for the Niger Delta region.
The political environment in Rivers State has become a focal point of national concern, with heightened tensions in the lead-up to the elections. Jonathan described the situation as a “cause for serious concern” for those committed to democracy and peace, urging all stakeholders, particularly security agencies, to refrain from actions that could further escalate tensions.
“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,” Jonathan stated. He noted that elections, whether at national or sub-national levels, are significant events that should honor the principles of democracy.
Jonathan’s caution comes at a time when conflicting court orders and political maneuvering have raised fears of unrest. He pointed to the critical role of state institutions, particularly the judiciary and police, in maintaining peace and upholding the rule of law.
This call for order is particularly relevant in light of reports of explosions at the All Progressives Congress (APC) office, which resulted in significant property damage, including shattered windows and destroyed doors at the party’s secretariat along Aba Road in Port Harcourt. The blast also brought down the gate of the secretariat, highlighting the destructive nature of the ongoing political conflict.
“The political situation in Rivers State mirrors our past, the crisis of the Old Western Region,” Jonathan said, referencing historical political conflicts in Nigeria’s First Republic that led to violence and instability. He warned that Rivers State should not be allowed to become a trigger for broader democratic collapse.
Jonathan called on all political actors in Rivers State to prioritize the collective good and to remain “circumspect and patriotic” in their pursuit of power and relevance. He stressed that democracy is a collective asset and urged all stakeholders to work together to ensure its growth through peaceful, law-abiding means.
Rivers State, often considered the gateway to the Niger Delta, holds strategic importance in the region, and any unrest could have serious ramifications beyond its borders. Jonathan’s appeal for calm and his warning against political overreach underscore the delicate balance required to maintain stability in one of Nigeria’s most volatile regions.
