Former President Goodluck Jonathan has delivered a stinging critique of governance and the justice system, accusing some public institutions of abusing their authority while relying on the courts to shield them from accountability.
Speaking on the state of governance, Jonathan argued that certain government agencies knowingly act outside the law before directing aggrieved citizens to seek redress through the judiciary.
“We see government institutions doing the wrong thing and telling people to go to court. When a thief tells you to go to court, just know that his brother is the judge,” the former president said.
The remark, laced with sharp symbolism, reflects growing concerns over institutional accountability, public confidence in the rule of law, and the perceived independence of the judiciary.
Jonathan’s comments are likely to reignite debate over governance reforms, judicial integrity, and the responsibility of state institutions to uphold justice rather than compel citizens into protracted legal battles.
The former president has, in recent years, repeatedly urged Nigerian leaders and public institutions to strengthen democratic values, uphold the rule of law, and place the interests of citizens above political expediency.
