Former President Goodluck Jonathan has said the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State calls for serious concern.
In a statement issued on Saturday, Jonathan called on stakeholders to wade into the political situation immediately to avoid breakdown of law and order.
He said, “I am aware that the local government election taking place in Rivers State today, October 5, has been a subject of great interest to political actors.
“The political happenings in Rivers State in the past days is a cause for serious concern for everyone, especially lovers of democracy and all actors within the peace and security sector of our nation.
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“Elections are the cornerstone of democracy because they are the primary source of legitimacy. This process renews the faith of citizens in their country as it affords them the opportunity to have a say in who governs them.
“Every election is significant, whether at national or sub-national levels as it counts as a gain and honour to democracy. It is the responsibility of all stakeholders, especially state institutions, to work towards the promotion of a sound democratic culture of which periodic election stands as a noble virtue.
“Democracy is our collective asset, its growth and progress are dependent on government commitment to uphold the rule of law and pursue the interest of peace and justice at all times. Institutions of the state, especially security agencies must refrain from actions that could lead to breakdown of law and order
He added, “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.”
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