Key Nigerian politcal leaders pretending to sleep over Rivers crisis – Jonathan
…says, govt functionaries dictate to judges what judgment they should give
By Matthew Denis
Former President Goodluck Jonathan has criticised key political figures in Nigeria, accusing them of feigning ignorance over the ongoing crisis in Rivers State, despite being fully aware of the correct course of action.
Speaking at the Annual Colloquium organised by the Haske Sotumari Foundation, Jonathan claimed that the Executive, Legislature, and Judiciary have failed to address the crisis, opting instead to “pretend to sleep.”
The crisis in Rivers State has been escalating, with President Bola Tinubu declaring a state of emergency last week to end the prolonged conflict between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the State House of Assembly led by Martis Amaewhule.
In his opening remarks, Jonathan expressed his concern about the lack of decisive action, stressing that the key political actors know what needs to be done but are failing to act.
“The key actors in Nigeria, from the Executive to the Legislature and the Judiciary, know the correct thing to do. But they are refusing to do it. They are pretending to sleep,” he said.
Jonathan noted that the situation is a clear example of abuse of power across the three arms of government, adding that such negligence has far-reaching implications for the nation.
He warned that decisions made by government officials and judicial bodies affect everyone, whether directly or indirectly.
He also siad the impact of Nigeria’s political dysfunction on the nation’s international standing, citing the global perception of Nigerian passports and the treatment of Nigerian citizens at international airports.
Jonathan emphasised that the country’s challenges, including corruption and judicial interference, contribute to these negative perceptions.
Jonathan spoke on the theme of the colloquium, Promoting Social Change and Development Through Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, and stressed that leadership must embrace these values to foster unity and bridge divides.
He revealed his efforts during his presidency to promote gender equality, youth empowerment, and regional balance, which he said helped foster national unity.
The former president said that the absence of these values in Nigerian politics contributes to division and unrest, urging leaders to adopt policies that respect the dignity of every citizen.
He also warned that the current state of Nigerian politics would discourage foreign investment.
“No businessman will bring their money to invest in a country where the judiciary is compromised, where government officials dictate judicial outcomes.
“Promoting social change is not a one-time event, but a continuous process that requires sustained commitment and engagement from all stakeholders, including civil society, the private sector, and governments,” he added.
Jonathan stressed the need for leaders at all levels of government to do what is right, even when it is difficult or costly.
