Former President Goodluck Jonathan has urged urgent reforms in Nigeria’s electoral body, particularly INEC, ahead of the 2027 general elections. Goodluck Jonathan electoral reforms
Represented by Ms. Ann Iyonu, Executive Director of the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation, Jonathan spoke during TAS’s National Action Plan presentation.
Jonathan commended TAS for strengthening Nigeria’s democracy, stressing its patriotic service to the nation’s future generations and political system.
He acknowledged Nigeria’s democratic progress since 1999 but emphasized that critical electoral challenges still undermine transparency and public confidence.
Jonathan insisted reforms must strengthen institutions, uphold justice, and reflect citizens’ will if Nigeria truly commits to democracy’s principles.
He criticized rising party indiscipline, describing opportunistic defections as harmful to accountability, inclusion, and electoral trust across political structures.
According to him, cross-carpeting erodes public faith since elected officials switch parties without justification or loyalty to voters.
Jonathan proposed creating an independent body to regulate party operations, enforce internal democracy, and declare defectors’ legislative seats vacant.
On INEC leadership, he highlighted neutrality and competence as essential, warning credibility suffers when appointments lack independence and transparency.
He recommended an independent screening process involving judiciary, academia, civil society, and professionals, before presidential appointment of INEC’s chairman.
Jonathan emphasized the urgent need to conclude all electoral disputes before swearing-in, warning unresolved cases undermine stability and governance.
He added that delayed rulings disenfranchise voters, destabilize governance, and deny candidates timely justice essential for credible democratic elections.
