Former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan has called on security agencies in Rivers State to ensure peace and order as political tensions escalate during the local government elections. Jonathan’s warning comes as the state witnesses a serious political crisis, primarily driven by a power struggle between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and Nyesom Wike, the former governor and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

In a statement issued on Saturday, Jonathan urged the police and other security forces to avoid any actions that could lead to chaos. His warning was prompted by concerns about the ongoing conflict between Fubara and Wike, which has thrown the state into a tense political atmosphere. The two leaders, once political allies, are now on opposite sides regarding the conduct of local government elections in Rivers.

Wike and his supporters have argued that the elections should not proceed, citing a Federal High Court ruling that prohibited the release of the 2023 voter register to the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC). This court decision was seen as a roadblock to the elections, but Governor Fubara was determined to move forward with the polls, stating that there would be no backing down.

As a result, the elections have gone ahead across the state, but under heightened tension. The political divide between Fubara and Wike has caused widespread concern, with many fearing that the clash could lead to unrest. The situation is particularly fragile given the presence of heavy security forces and the court’s ruling, which has not stopped Fubara from pushing ahead with the election.

In his statement, Jonathan emphasized the need for security agencies to act responsibly and uphold peace during this delicate time. He reminded them that their role is to protect the democratic process and ensure that no violence or breakdown of law and order occurs. His appeal reflects the growing concern over how the ongoing political rivalry might impact the state’s governance and stability.

The elections are currently underway in all local government areas of Rivers, but the political drama surrounding them continues to unfold. Jonathan’s message is a timely reminder of the importance of peace and stability, particularly in moments of political uncertainty. His call for restraint by the security agencies is aimed at ensuring that the situation does not worsen, allowing the elections to be completed without further disruption.

As the political crisis in Rivers State continues to develop, it remains to be seen how the conflict between Governor Fubara and Nyesom Wike will play out. However, the focus for now is on ensuring that law and order are maintained during this critical period in the state’s political landscape.

Reacting to the crisis, Jonathan in a statement on his official X handle, declared that it is the responsibility of all stakeholders, “especially state institutions, to work towards the promotion of sound democratic culture of which periodic election stands as a noble virtue”.

“Democracy is our collective asset, its growth and progress is dependent on governments commitment to uphold the rule of law and pursue the interest of peace and justice at all times,” he added.

Jonathan further warned that state institutions, “especially security agencies, must refrain from actions that could lead to breakdown of law and order”.

Parts of the statement reads: “Rivers State represents the gateway to the Niger Delta and threat to peace in the state could have huge security implications in the region.

“Let me sound a note of caution to all political actors in this crisis to be circumspect and patriotic in the pursuit of their political ambition and relevance.

“I am calling on the National Judicial Commission (NJC) to take action that will curb the proliferation of court orders and judgements, especially those of concurrent jurisdiction giving conflicting orders. This, if not checked, will ridicule the institution of the judiciary and derail our democracy.

“The political situation in Rivers State, mirrors our past, the crisis of the Old Western Region. I, therefore, warn that Rivers should not be used as crystal that will form the block that will collapse our democracy.

“State institutions especially the police and the judiciary and all other stakeholders must always work for public interest and promote common goods such as peace, justice and equality.”