Jonathan kicks against govs’ mass presence in off-cycle election states

Former President Goodluck Jonathan has cautioned against the practice of senior politicians, such as governors, party leaders, and influential government officials, gathering in large numbers in states where off-cycle elections are taking place. Jonathan expressed concern over what he deemed an emerging trend during recent elections in Osun, Ekiti, and Ondo states.

He stressed that this behavior is unusual and should not become normal in a democratic society, as it could undermine the democratic stability of Nigeria. Reflecting on previous instances during the 2013 Anambra and 2014 Ekiti governorship elections, Jonathan recounted how he had ordered senior political leaders to leave the states upon receiving the information.

He cautioned that the trend could create an atmosphere of apprehension, intimidation, and undue pressure during elections. Jonathan acknowledged that political parties have the right to campaign and mobilize supporters, but he warned that the overwhelming presence of senior public officials and influential political actors on election day could undermine peaceful competition.

He questioned the consistency of the increasing deployment of political power and large-scale mobilization by senior office holders during off-cycle elections with the spirit of free, fair, and peaceful democratic competition, noting that such practices are not common in other democratic countries.