The deepening political unrest in Rivers State has ignited widespread discourse across Nigeria, with influential political leaders voicing their concerns. Former President Dr. Goodluck Jonathan has condemned the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara and several other elected officials, arguing that such measures jeopardize Nigeria’s democratic framework and international standing. Addressing attendees at the Haske Satumari Foundation Colloquium in Abuja on Saturday, Jonathan underscored the necessity of upholding democratic principles to prevent further instability.
Highlighting the dangers of political interference in judicial processes, Jonathan warned that when government institutions fail to operate independently, public confidence is severely undermined. Quoting an Indian proverb, he likened the leadership’s inaction to a person pretending to be asleep—suggesting that those in power are aware of the correct course but choose to ignore it. He went on to describe the crisis as a blatant misuse of authority spanning across the executive, legislative, and judicial branches.
Meanwhile, Senate President Godswill Akpabio has strongly refuted accusations that senators were bribed with $15,000 each to support the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State. Social media reports alleged that Akpabio distributed cash at his Maitama residence, disbursing $5,000, $10,000 on Tuesday and an additional $10,000 on Wednesday, totaling $25,000 just before the legislative vote.
Dismissing the allegations as a politically motivated attack, Akpabio, through his Special Adviser on Media, Hon. Eseme Eyiboh, stated that the claims were baseless and aimed at tarnishing his reputation. He noted that Akpabio has a long-standing tradition of hosting breaking-of-fast events, questioning why this particular year’s gathering was being linked to financial inducements.
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“These stories are nothing more than fabricated narratives designed to fuel a smear campaign,” Eyiboh asserted. “The Senate President has hosted similar events in previous years, so why is this instance suddenly tied to bribery?”
Despite the controversy, both chambers of the National Assembly proceeded with a unanimous voice vote on Thursday to approve the state of emergency proclamation for Rivers State. This decision has further intensified debates about the state’s political trajectory and the broader implications for Nigeria’s democratic stability.
