Jonathan condemns Edo gov, others’ “unwholesome” actions during Osun election

Former President Goodluck Jonathan has expressed his disapproval over the increasing prevalence of what he termed as "unwholesome" behavior exhibited by serving governors, senior political figures, and influential government officials during off-cycle elections in various states. In a statement released on Tuesday, Jonathan highlighted this issue during the recent Osun governorship election, where a significant number of APC governors and their aides, accompanied by extensive security personnel, arrived in Osun with large convoys.

Jonathan commended various stakeholders for maintaining peace during the electoral process but expressed concern over the growing practice of influential politicians converging on states holding elections, accompanied by their entourages and security forces. He warned that such conduct, which has been observed in previous elections in states like Anambra and Ekiti, during his tenure as President, is not suitable for a democratic society.

According to Jonathan, the excessive mobilization by serving governors and senior public officials could create an intimidating atmosphere, potentially leading to situations of intimidation and undue pressure on voters. He emphasized that while political parties have the right to campaign and mobilize supporters, there is a limit to which this mobilization should not cross, as it might foster an environment of fear, intimidation, and political bullying.

Jonathan questioned whether such practices align with the principles of democratic competition, suggesting that these tactics might not promote healthy elections but rather deepen political tensions. He cautioned that if opposing political parties engage in a contest involving governmental influence and security-backed mobilization, it could have detrimental effects on the democratic process.

The former President stressed that instead of strengthening democracy, such behavior could deepen political divisions and transform elections into confrontations for survival rather than peaceful contests for the people's mandate.