By Joshua Tosin Ogunsakin 
Former President Goodluck Jonathan has stated that suspending elected officials in Rivers State could tarnish the country’s image.
He made the remark at the Haske Satumari Foundation Colloquium in Abuja on Saturday.
“These actions by key actors in the executive and legislative arms of government paint the country in a negative light,” he said.
Jonathan while sharing his thoughts about the political turmoil in Rivers State, said although it is not the norm for former presidents to comment on issues in the polity so as not to heat up the polity, he insisted that the image of the country and how much investments a country attracts is heavily dependent on the actions of the executive, legislature and judiciary of the country.
Jonathan’s comment on the emergency rule came after the Peoples Democratic Party governors contended that the President Bola Tinubu’s actions were unconstitutional and threatened Nigeria’s democratic principles.
The Metro reports that Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State and suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara; his deputy, Ngozi Odu; as well as members of the state House of Assembly for six months.
However, Jonathan said, his comment became necessary after calls from many Nigerians, urging him to speak on the events in Rivers State.
He faulted the situation where an individual can dictate to the judiciary, noting that it makes it difficult for anyone to have faith in the judiciary.
According to him, building the society where no one is oppressed is the hallmark of good leadership, leveraging the transformative power of diversity, equity and inclusion for social change.
“I believe that it is the hallmark of good leadership and governance to be able to leverage the transformative power of diversity, equity and inclusion for social change.
“As a leader, I have seen how these values can bring people together, foster a sense of belonging and unlock the full potential of individuals and communities.
“I have also seen how the absence of these values can lead to division, inequality and social unrest.
“It is, therefore, our responsibility as leaders and change-makers to promote a culture of diversity and inclusion; one that values and respects the dignity and worth of every human being and protects the interests of all,” he said.
The former president further stated that any society with these attributes would be deemed to be innovative, resilient and harmonious.
“I know this because I saw how policies that promoted gender equality, youth empowerment and regional balance during my time as president helped bridge divides and foster national unity,” he said.