The Political Tension in Rivers State has drawn the attention of former President Goodluck Jonathan.
Jonathan, in a statement issued on Saturday urged the National Judicial Council (NJC) to address the rising problem of contradictory court rulings .
According to the former president, the unrest in Rivers State seriously jeopardises the peace and stability of the Niger Delta as a whole as well as within the state.
He said, one of the problems impeding democracy is the inconsistent judicial orders made by courts in different jurisdictions.
In his view, if the situation is not addressed, Nigeria’s democracy could be derailed, and the judiciary can be ridiculed.
“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.
“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 on 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 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.
“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 former president said.
The Ex-President urged security agencies, especially the police, to avoid actions that could lead to lawlessness.