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Jonathan speaks out on Rivers State crisis |
An unexpected alliance is forming in Abuja as former president Goodluck Jonathan presses for the return of Rivers State governor Siminalayi Fubara. This push comes just days before President Bola Tinubu is set to mark his two-year anniversary with a national address on Democracy Day, May 29, 2025.
Jonathan spoke out at the Haske Satumari Foundation Colloquium on March 22. He warned that suspending elected officials in Rivers State under emergency rule tarnishes Nigeria’s image . He pressed for Fubara’s swift return to office, arguing that the state’s stability hinges on respecting voters’ mandate.
On March 18, President Tinubu declared a six-month state of emergency in Rivers. He suspended Governor Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and all elected lawmakers. The move aimed to curb pipeline vandalism and restore order after political unrest and attacks on oil infrastructure . Tinubu invoked Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution to justify his action, citing the “grave situation” in the oil-rich region.
Jonathan stressed that emergency powers must not override democracy. He argued the suspension paints Nigeria in a negative light and shakes investor confidence . His stance breaks with convention; former presidents rarely comment on active political crises. Jonathan said public calls for his intervention left him no choice but to speak up.
The presidency swiftly pushed back. Senior Special Assistant Temitope Ajayi insisted Tinubu acted within constitutional bounds and to protect national unity . Ajayi noted that the Supreme Court recognized no functioning Rivers government due to the legislative-executive standoff. He urged critics to respect the rule of law.
Meanwhile, civil society groups and activists are rallying for Fubara’s reinstatement. A coalition of human rights advocates demanded reversal of the emergency rule as illegal and unconstitutional. They called for immediate reinstatement of all suspended officials . Their press conference in Abuja underscored growing concern over federal overreach.
Public opinion remains split. Many Nigerians on social media argued Tinubu’s move was necessary to protect oil assets and quell violence. Others saw it as a partisan power grab undermining democracy . Lawmakers in both chambers eventually approved the emergency declaration in a voice vote, despite fierce objections from opposition members .
Fubara himself has taken a cautious tone. At a recent service of songs for elder statesman Edwin Clark, he downplayed calls for his return. He said his “spirit has already left” Government House, suggesting he fears the political climate there . Yet insiders hint Fubara may quietly negotiate his way back before the six-month deadline.
Speculation swirled that Tinubu might announce a shortened suspension during his Democracy Day address. Many in Port Harcourt held out hope for Fubara’s reinstatement on May 29 . Those expectations dimmed as fresh demands emerged from pro-Wike factions, insisting Fubara meet strict conditions before returning .
In the lead-up to May 29, Tinubu’s team has kept details of his speech tightly under wraps. He heads into his second anniversary seeking to highlight achievements and map out plans for the next year . Observers expect him to address national security, the economy, and unity. Rivers State’s crisis will be a central test of his coalition’s cohesion.
Amid these high stakes, Jonathan’s call for Fubara’s return adds pressure. It signals that even elder statesmen see the emergency rule as a step too far. As Democracy Day approaches, the country watches whether Tinubu will welcome a return to civilian rule in Rivers or hold firm on his emergency mandate.
Continued debate on this issue will shape Nigeria’s democratic norms. Citizens are urged to follow developments and share views respectfully.