Former President Goodluck Jonathan has cautioned against actions by the police and judiciary that could lead to chaos in Rivers State during the ongoing local government elections. In a statement on Saturday, Jonathan urged the Nigeria Judicial Council (NJC) to address conflicting court judgments that have contributed to political tensions.
Jonathan expressed concern over the role of state institutions in the elections, warning that political instability in Rivers could spill over into the wider Niger Delta region, with severe security consequences. He emphasized the importance of safeguarding democracy by upholding the rule of law and ensuring peace, urging politicians not to prioritize personal interests over public good.
Jonathan’s message came amid growing unrest in Rivers State, with allegations of judicial misconduct and police complicity in election-related matters. He called for immediate action from authorities to prevent a situation reminiscent of past crises in Nigeria, such as the Old Western Region’s political turmoil.
The former president also warned that Rivers State, as a key part of the Niger Delta, must not be dragged into conflict, which could destabilize the region and the country. He urged all stakeholders, especially the police and judiciary, to work for the common good and maintain peace and justice.
This warning comes as the political situation in Rivers State continues to escalate, with various actors expressing concerns about the conduct of the elections. The NJC has been called upon to investigate the judiciary’s role, and security agencies are urged to maintain impartiality in their operations.
