Former President Dr. Goodluck Jonathan has stated that the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara and other elected officials in Rivers State tarnishes Nigeria’s image. He made this remark while serving as Chairman at the Haske Satumari Foundation Colloquium in Abuja on Saturday, March 22.
“These actions by prominent figures in the executive and legislative branches of government cast the country in a negative light,” he said.
Dr. Jonathan acknowledged that it is not common for former presidents to comment on such matters to avoid inflaming the political atmosphere. However, he felt compelled to speak out after receiving numerous requests from Nigerians urging him to address the situation in Rivers State.
He emphasized that a country’s image and its ability to attract investments are closely tied to the actions of its executive, legislature, and judiciary.
The former president also criticized the influence of individuals over the judiciary, stating that such interference undermines public trust in the legal system.
On March 18, President Tinubu declared a State of Emergency in Rivers State following the ongoing political crisis. In a nationwide address, the President announced the suspension of Governor Fubara, his deputy, Professor Ngozi Odu, and the state’s House of Assembly members for six months, appointing a sole administrator to oversee the state during this period.