LG Poll: “Security Agencies Must Avoid Actions Leading to Breakdown of Law and Order in Rivers” – Jonathan Warns

Former Nigerian President, Goodluck Jonathan, has issued a stern warning to security agencies in Rivers State, urging them to avoid any actions that could trigger a breakdown of law and order. His statement comes amid rising tensions surrounding the ongoing local government elections in the state.

The political crisis, which has escalated due to a fallout between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, reached a critical point as the local elections proceeded despite opposition from Wike’s camp. Wike and his loyalists had called for the cancellation of the polls, citing a Federal High Court ruling, but Governor Fubara maintained that the election would go on as scheduled.

As the polls proceeded across the state’s local government areas, Jonathan took to his official X (formerly Twitter) account on Saturday, stressing the importance of maintaining democratic values and the rule of law. He emphasized that all stakeholders, particularly state institutions, have a duty to promote peaceful and just democratic processes.

“Democracy is a collective asset, and its growth relies on the government’s commitment to uphold the rule of law, ensuring peace and justice at all times,” Jonathan stated. He further cautioned that security agencies must avoid actions that could incite unrest.

Highlighting the broader implications of the crisis, Jonathan warned that instability in Rivers State could have serious security repercussions for the Niger Delta region. He called on political actors to prioritize patriotism and restraint in their pursuit of power, urging them to avoid actions that could undermine the state’s peace.

In his statement, Jonathan also addressed the judiciary, calling on the National Judicial Council (NJC) to address the issue of conflicting court orders, particularly from courts of concurrent jurisdiction. According to him, such contradictions risk damaging the judiciary’s credibility and destabilizing Nigeria’s democracy.

“The political situation in Rivers mirrors past crises, such as those in the Old Western Region,” Jonathan cautioned. “I warn that Rivers should not become the catalyst that undermines our democratic system.”

He concluded by reiterating the responsibility of state institutions, especially the police and judiciary, to act in the public’s interest and promote peace, justice, and equality across the state.