Former President Goodluck Jonathan has called on all political leaders and stakeholders to strengthen Nigeria’s democracy by ensuring peace and security during the upcoming Edo governorship election on Saturday. He emphasized the importance of maintaining a peaceful environment for voters, highlighting that a stable atmosphere is crucial for the democratic process.
In a recent statement, Jonathan urged politicians to pursue their ambitions while adhering strictly to the law. He cautioned against engaging in activities that could disrupt the peace and stability of Edo State. “It is encouraging that civil rule has endured in the Fourth Republic for 25 years,” he noted. “However, we must remind ourselves that democracy loses its value when citizens cannot exercise their political choices freely and fairly.”
Jonathan’s call for responsible political behavior is particularly significant in the context of Nigeria’s history of electoral violence and disputes. He underscored the necessity for all involved in the electoral process, especially state institutions, to maintain neutrality. The role of the police and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is pivotal, as these bodies must act as independent arbiters to ensure a fair election.
“The Edo election places a moral burden on state agencies,” Jonathan stated, urging the police and INEC to rise to their constitutional responsibilities. He insisted that security agencies must conduct themselves with complete neutrality and avoid any actions that could compromise the credibility of the electoral process. “A fair election environment is essential for maintaining public trust in our democracy,” he added.
Moreover, Jonathan highlighted that INEC must meet expectations as an impartial overseer. The commission has the critical task of ensuring a transparent voting process to inspire confidence among all political actors. “Loss of confidence in an election encourages political disputes, social unrest, and voter apathy,” he warned. “These issues can lead to increased polarization and other consequences that undermine development and democratic consolidation.”
Jonathan also pointed out that for democracy to thrive, the leadership recruitment process must be free from manipulation. He stressed that state institutions have an obligation to guarantee peaceful, credible, and transparent elections. This is vital for enabling citizens to elect leaders who can be entrusted with the responsibility of good governance.
To conclude, Jonathan’s message serves as a timely reminder that democracy requires active participation and vigilance from all stakeholders. By fostering an environment where citizens can freely express their political choices, Nigeria can move towards greater stability and prosperity.
The upcoming Edo governorship election presents an opportunity for all political actors to demonstrate their commitment to peace, integrity, and the democratic process. Only then can the nation ensure that its democracy remains strong and resilient for future generations.
