‘Demands national attention – Jonathan decries Akpabio, APC govs’ influence in Osun election

Former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan has expressed concern over the increasing trend of influential political figures from outside a state attempting to sway the outcome of off-cycle elections. This issue came to light during the recent governorship election in Osun State, where approximately 16 governors from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) were reportedly present to rally support for their candidate.

The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, and other high-ranking political leaders were also in the state in the days leading up to the election, which has sparked controversy and raised questions about their intentions.

In response to this situation, Jonathan warned that such political behavior merits national attention. While acknowledging the legitimacy of the electoral process, he emphasized that the emerging trend of serving governors, senior political officials, and party leaders from outside a state converging on election sites with large entourages and security details is a matter of concern.

He highlighted that similar instances had been observed during off-cycle elections in Ekiti and Ondo States, describing the practice as unusual.

Jonathan stressed that this type of conduct should not become normalized in a democratic society.